Batik mural brings colour, culture to KL
A family walking by the newly unveiled batik-inspired mural in Jalan Parlimen. — Photos: LOW BOON TAT/The Star
New street art in Jalan Parlimen weaves Malaysian identity into cityscape
VISUAL artist Arif Rafhan Othman, 48, better known by his moniker Superdoofus, is no stranger to incorporating batik into his creative work.
His signature style, marked by vibrant splashes of colour and cultural motifs, has been featured in artistic projects across the country.
However, his latest endeavour, a mural at 'Zon Jejak Pahlawan' in Jalan Parlimen in Kuala Lumpur, called for a deeper approach.
Titled 'Mural Batik Madani', the artwork carries a message of inclusivity and shared identity, celebrating the common threads that unite all Malaysians.
'I want it to be a reflection of our common hopes and goals,' Arif told StarMetro at the event to unveil the installation.
He hopes his design and personal outlook resonate with how many Malaysians feel; united by shared experiences and values.
Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Federal Territories) Datuk Seri Dr Zaliha Mustafa launched the event, along with Kuala Lumpur mayor Datuk Seri Maimunah Mohd Sharif.
Arif Rafhan says mural is meant to showcase the spirit of inclusivity.
In her speech, Maimunah highlighted the role of public art in both beautifying the city and strengthening community ties.
'At Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL), we believe the arts can foster a sense of pride and belonging among residents,' she said.
'This mural is more than just a visual landmark – it represents the rich cultural identity that defines Kuala Lumpur.'
Spanning 183m in length and six metres in height, the mural is part of a joint corporate social responsibility initiative between Kuala Lumpur City Hall (DBKL) and Berjaya Group Bhd.
DBKL said in a media statement that work on the mural began on Feb 11 and was completed by March 24, nearly a month ahead of schedule.
'This mural is aimed at conveying a message of inclusivity and unity among Malaysia's diverse communities.
'It is also to highlight our heritage, including that of Sabah and Sarawak, using batik as an education and artistic medium,' said DBKL.
Also present were Berjaya founder Tan Sri Vincent Tan and Federal Territories deputy director-general (Planning and Development) Datuk Ramlee Yatim.
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