Relaxed Tunku portrait steals spotlight at Merdeka Art Exhibition
At the heart of the Merdeka Art Exhibition 2026 – Beautiful Malaysia, held in the Shoppes at Four Seasons Place, a surprisingly informal portrait of Malaysia’s founding Prime Minister commands attention. The 80 × 60 cm acrylic canvas shows Tunku Abdul Rahman with his familiar walking stick against a backdrop of the Jalur Gemilang, offering a warm, approachable glimpse of the Father of Independence.
The work is the creation of Shasharizah Mohd Said, known artistically as Shasha MSaid. Over two months she painstakingly rendered the statesman’s facial features, posture and attire, aiming to shift the paradigm of historical portraiture toward a more relaxed yet respectful tone. Her intention was to humanise a revered figure without diminishing his stature.
The portrait earned a personal endorsement when the late Tunku’s daughter, Puan Sri Tunku Noor Hayati, remarked on its striking resemblance to her father’s true likeness. The artist’s portfolio also includes a portrait of national hero Lieutenant Adnan Saidi, underscoring her belief that art can serve as an educational bridge for younger generations.
Beyond this single piece, the exhibition showcases more than a hundred works by nearly as many Malaysian artists, ranging from seasoned veterans to three‑year‑old creators and artists with disabilities. Organized by the NGO Saksama in partnership with Art Market Malaysia, the show emphasizes inclusivity, bringing together diverse ethnic backgrounds and abilities under one roof and reflecting the spirit of National Month, Malaysia Day and the Visit Malaysia 2026 campaign.