A brand synonymous with pewter craftsmanship, Royal Selangor has an enduring legacy that has carried on for 140 years. Founded in 1885, the company has pushed the boundaries of design while staying true to its heritage. A globally-renowned brand, it has put Malaysia firmly on the global map with presence in over 20 countries.
It’s rather fitting for its 140th anniversary this year, Royal Selangor is putting together a year-long celebration called Spirit of Artistry. This milestone honours the brand’s remarkable history while embracing the future, blending tradition with modern creativity in a bold and exciting way.
Art Meets Craftsmanship
The Spirit of Artistry celebration is not just about honouring its past. It also about moving forward with bold expressions of Royal Selangor’s legacy. The anniversary brings together history, craftsmanship, and innovation through a series of events, artistic collaborations, and immersive experiences.
A stunning mural at the Royal Selangor Visitor Centre is the centrepiece of this celebration. A collaboration with local graffiti artists Abdul Rashade, Iskandar, and Adi Azwan of Wise Works Collective – they bring Royal Selangor’s rich heritage into the modern age with a graffiti mural that tells the story of the brand’s evolution.
Located at the visitor centre, the mural is a striking representation of the company’s fusion of traditional craftsmanship with contemporary art. To further celebrate this momentous occasion, Royal Selangor is also hosting Spirit of Artistry: A Timeless Journey, an exhibition that traces the brand’s evolution from its humble beginnings in Kuala Lumpur to becoming a global name.
The exhibition features historic signboards, vintage brochures, and past campaigns that defined Royal Selangor’s identity. Visitors can explore how the company’s designs have evolved over time, with a dedicated gallery showcasing contemporary pieces alongside archival items such as storefront signage from 1911 and the desk of the second-generation founder.
A Nod to History
Another highlight of the anniversary is the restored Volkswagen Transporter, or Kombi, a symbol of Royal Selangor’s growth in the 1970s and 80s. This iconic van was used by Soh Eng, wife of the company’s second-generation founder, to personally deliver pewter to dealers across Malaysia, and even to Singapore.
The restored Kombi serves as a tribute to Royal Selangor’s pioneering spirit and its ongoing commitment to craftsmanship and excellence. It also provides a nostalgic glimpse into the 1960s, when Royal Selangor was expanding, and the Kombi van was busy transporting pewter across the country.
This era is captured in a timeless moment that symbolises the early growth and entrepreneurial spirit of the brand. The iconic pitcher, once a fixture in the Kombi delivery van of the 1960s, is now hand-painted onto the restored vehicle as a symbol of Royal Selangor’s enduring legacy. This simple yet powerful symbol bridges the past and present, continuing to inspire future generations.
Celebrating 140 years, Royal Selangor provides an opportunity for visitors to experience the Spirit of Artistry celebrations firsthand. With a variety of special events and exhibitions throughout the year, this is a perfect opportunity to explore the brand’s rich history and innovative future.
