SOME 30,000 miniature modelling enthusiasts and visitors are expected to gather next month for the highly anticipated Malaysia International Miniature Hobby Show and Competition (MIMHS-MALCOM), Southeast Asia’s premier event in the scale modelling scene.
Scheduled to take place from June 14 to 15, between 10am and 5.30pm at St Giles The Wembley Hotel in George Town, this flagship event is led by World Hobby Miniatures founder Choo Huang Ming, with strong backing from the Penang Tourism and Creative Economy (Petace) office, chaired by Wong Hon Wai.
In its 10th anniversary edition, MIMHS-MALCOM promises an exciting two-day experience featuring immersive masterclasses conducted by world-renowned model artists.
These hands-on sessions will cover advanced techniques such as hand-painting, airbrushing, weathering, diorama construction, and model customisation — offering enthusiasts an unparalleled opportunity to refine their craft and learn directly from the best in the industry.
Wong said the event is a celebration of creativity, meticulous craftsmanship, and the vibrant community spirit within the miniature modelling world.
He noted that MIMHS-MALCOM has grown significantly since its inception, earning its place among global heavyweights such as Hungary’s Moson Model Show, the Netherlands’ Scale Model Challenge, the AK Interactive International Competition in Thailand, China’s Model World Saga in Guangzhou, and Japan’s Shizuoka Hobby Show.
“This recognition reflects the professional calibre and international influence the show has achieved over the past decade,” said Wong during a press conference held at Komtar today.
Wong highlighted that this year marks a major milestone for MIMHS-MALCOM.
“A decade of passion and commitment has brought us to this point. We’re confident that the 2025 edition will once again surpass expectations.
“More than just a platform for creative exchange, the event offers the public an eye-opening cultural experience.
“Last year’s edition attracted 20,000 visitors — a number that is expected to swell to 30,000 this year,” he said.
Wong added that as of late April, over 650 participants from five continents had already registered to compete.
He believes the final number will be even higher, with additional walk-in and postal entries anticipated in the coming weeks.
“In addition to the competitions, more than 80 leading model manufacturers from around the world will be exhibiting at the event, representing a diverse cross-section of the global miniature industry.
“The strong international turnout reflects the vibrant and interconnected nature of the modelling community,” Wong said, noting that representatives from 10 model associations across various countries will also be in attendance.
Participants, manufacturers, judges, and association members will be converging from 24 countries and regions, including Australia, China, Chinese Taipei, Germany, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Russia, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, Thailand, Turkey, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Vietnam.
“MIMHS-MALCOM has become a vital platform for global cultural exchange in the modelling world.
“It’s a perfect fit for Penang — a city known for its cultural diversity, artistic vitality, and creative energy,” Wong said.
On a separate note, Wong also announced that the Penang Island Paddlez Club (PIPC), one of Penang’s top dragon boat teams, will represent Malaysia at the 2025 Longgang International Dragon Boat Invitational in China on May 23.
“Founded in 2009, PIPC has established itself as a formidable force in the sport, admired for its strength, unity, and perseverance.
“PIPC’s journey is a shining example of what can be achieved when people from different backgrounds unite with a shared passion.
“From the serene waters of Tanjong Bungah to the challenging tides of the Straits of Malacca, the team has trained relentlessly, always pushing forward with resilience,” said Wong.
As chairman of the Penang Dragon Boat Regatta 2025, Wong extended his congratulations and best wishes to the team.
“We are proud of your achievements and confident that your dedication, discipline, and team spirit will carry you to even greater success,” he said.
Story by Riadz Akmal
Pix by Darwina Mohd Daud