Cosplay should not be dismissed as eccentric dressing but embraced as a creative outlet that builds confidence among young Malaysians, said Penang Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai.
Wong said the activity helps shy and introverted youths step beyond their comfort zones, speaking at the opening ceremony of the CosWorld Festival at Island 88 on 4 July.
“More importantly, it provides a platform for young people to express themselves and build confidence, allowing many who may be naturally shy or introverted to step beyond their comfort zones and showcase their talents,” he said.
The festival marked its fourth edition this year, drawing anime and pop culture enthusiasts from across Penang. According to theSun, Wong congratulated the organising team for their dedication in providing a platform for fans to connect, showcase their talents and share their passion.
He pointed to the practical skills cosplay develops, including costume design, character creation, photography and artistic expression.
Wong acknowledged that cosplay continues to face stigma in many societies despite its global popularity. He said limited understanding of anime culture leads some to reduce it to “eccentric dressing” or “attention-seeking behaviour”, with exaggerated character designs sometimes attracting unfair labels across the entire community.
“When developed in a healthy, structured and positive environment, cosplay can serve as a creative cultural activity that nurtures imagination, unlocks potential and strengthens community bonds,” he said.
Wong also highlighted cosplay’s ability to bring together Malaysians of different ethnic backgrounds on a single stage.
“Whether they are Malay, Chinese, Indian or international participants, they are able to come together on the same stage, united by shared passion, connected through characters and inspired by common interests,” he said.
“In a multicultural society like ours, if a mask or a costume can bring young people from different backgrounds together to appreciate and respect one another, then cosplay represents more than just entertainment and artistic expression.”
Also present at the opening ceremony were CosWorld Festival founder Richard Lim, Island 88 president Paul Law, managing director Philip Law and complex manager Cheong Sook Yeng.
