A powerful response to censorship and public scrutiny, ‘Banned in KL’ is unapologetic and uncompromising. Resonating beyond music, the track marked a pivotal moment for artistic freedom and self-expression in Malaysia, cutting through the noise and positioning killamisha as one of the most vital voices in the local music landscape.

Modus Operandi stood out for its refined alt-rock sound and clear artistic direction. Balancing emotional songwriting with confident production, the EP delivers a cohesive and polished listening experience. It captures Midnight Fusic at a moment of creative clarity, making it one of the year’s most accomplished local releases.

The cover art, drawn by LEPLOKO (LOKO’s lead guitarist), captures the uncertainty of young adulthood, from the fear of the future to the feeling of being lost while searching for our own path. Featuring gritty urban imagery, bold typography, and a mixed-media style with subtle Picasso-esque influences, the artwork reflects youth rebellion and mirrors the album’s raw energy.

Against Mel, F.Rider, and Sophiarzk have different musical sounds, yet on ‘MelayuSwagGiler’ they click perfectly. Their chemistry made it one of the year’s most viral songs with a bold, infectious attitude and an unapologetically fun swagger—a collaboration that turned heads and defined the year in local music.

hawa have cemented themselves as one of the most compelling forces in the local music scene. The band became Eff Hakim’s reinvention and a lifeline for the scene. Her debut album bursts with riot grrrl energy, blending raw punk aggression with sharp melodies and honest, unapologetic lyrics. With hawa, Eff not only reclaimed her voice but also revitalised the local scene, showing that growth, resilience, and fearless creativity can inspire a whole community.

A solo act most unafraid of controversy, pushing boundaries, and raw expression. killamisha stands as an emblem of a generation that fights for their voice and individuality. Her work reflects the spirit of youth determined to claim their space, proving that artistry and authenticity are never things to compromise.

Women & Children spin ethereal sonic-pop into something dreamy, psychedelic, and unmistakably their own. As all-rounder DIY artists, they create their music, album art, and videos, making every part of their work a reflection of their adventurous spirit. With a curious name and fearless approach, they have stormed the local scene as one of the year’s most exciting new acts.

Ipoh-born DJ Miko Naiko made waves with her Pestapora debut this year, standing out as a hijabi performer rewriting the rules of the local dance scene. A self-proclaimed opponent of genre elitism, she mixes sounds fearlessly, crafting sets that are as unpredictable as they are irresistible. Bold, playful, and unapologetically herself, Miko Naiko proves that talent, creativity, and attitude can move any crowd and leave a lasting mark on the scene.

GHOSTBOY dominated the votes thanks to their against-the-grain ethos, weaving youth culture, rebellion, and the beautifully irregular into bold and playful designs that effortlessly challenge the norm. The Kuala Lumpur-based design label embodies the spirit of individuality like no other.

SVG Worldwide has proven that you don’t need to start off big to make it big, and it’s no surprise. From street culture essentials to high-fashion concepts, the only way the label’s headed now is onwards and upwards.

What do you get when you fuse handmade batik sarong with other elements like crystals and pearls? None other than Oh Dayang. Instead of generic-looking jewellery, you get statement pieces with a tasteful hit of Nusantara flair.

The PUMA Speedcat Ballet blends motorsport racing heritage with elegant Y2K chic, a combination you probably thought would never work out well. But nothing’s impossible, and PUMA has proven just how versatile the ballet flat can be.

Keeping pieces in the loop (literally) means LOOOP has earned its spot as best thrift store, giving new homes to sentimental pieces that have parted from their previous owners. While the things you find here might not be new, they’re most definitely ‘new’ to you.

Green Day wowed Malaysia with their first-ever Kuala Lumpur show on 18 February 2025 at the National Hockey Stadium. Their set was a nonstop blast of punk anthems, 2000s nostalgia, and pure rebellion, making the night one for the bucket list. Billie Joe and the crowd fed off each other’s energy, creating chaos that proved punk is still very much alive.

ZUS Coffee set the bar with their Blue Buddy launch, the plushie everyone couldn’t stop talking about. By turning a simple product into a story people felt, they had Malaysians lining up just to bring home their own soft blue sidekick. Who knew a plushie could make this much of an emotional splash?

TAPAUfest wins by a landslide, scooping nearly 50% of all Best Festival votes and proving it’s Malaysia’s favourite spot for the young and indie. Music, fashion, and good vibes come together to make it a can’t-miss hangout for fans and bands alike. If you were in the scene, you already know this was the place to be!

Rewriting the rules of KL’s nightlife and drinks scene, Ms Bianca was born from a desire to challenge the norm. Everything, including the music, menu, and the vibe is carefully curated by women, for women. But the magic of Ms Bianca lies in the finer details.

Malaysia’s first micro club, 404 Club Not Found is an intimate, high-energy bolt of Shanghai-born nightlife packed into a sub-1,000 sq. ft. space of curated music and avant-garde visuals. But it’s not just some club that anyone can walk into. And that’s how it stays exclusive.

A Malaysian-born listening room with global soul, fono is part jazz haunt, part selector hub, and part collaborative playground. It’s always evolving, and most importantly, always welcoming.

Winning by a landslide, Plump is a bright, welcoming café where brunch, coffee, and desserts collide in a fresh, photogenic space perfect for lingering or working. Are you surprised? We’re not.

A rainforest retreat of glass-to-steel chalets, open-air showers, and zero reception—what more could you ask for if you’re looking for an escape from the hustle and bustle of city life? It’s a raw, soul-resetting return to nature.

Lidia Chatura lit up KLFW this year, walking multiple runways with a vibe that is part ethereal, part punk, and all her own. Based between KL and Seoul, she blends modelling, art, and performance into something fresh and unpredictable. Our new face of fashion, we believe she's set to take over the world… one flavoured ciggie at a time.