Malaysian artist-activist Shahar ‘Shaq’ Koyok is reshaping the narrative of Orang Asli identity through bold, contemporary art. His work captures stories of displacement, resilience, and cultural pride, giving voice to a community too often overlooked.
Beyond the canvas, Shaq’s journey spans global institutions from Australia’s National Gallery to New Zealand’s Te Papa and the UK’s Eden Project, where he explores how Indigenous art drives advocacy, activism, and policy change.
His mission? To challenge tokenism and push for genuine, powerful representation that honors Orang Asli voices.
For Shaq, it’s about more than visibility; it’s about respect. His vision is a Malaysia where Indigenous art isn’t a marginal note — but a vital, celebrated part of the country’s cultural heartbeat.
Shaq received the Merdeka Award Grant in 2017.
Read more about his experience here:
