ATKINSON HYPERLEGIBLE NEXT: A TYPEFACE FOR CLARITY

The ONE Asia Creative Awards will hold judging in Malaysia for the first time, with 42 judges from 15 countries convening at The Majestic Kuala Lumpur from 17–19 October 2026. Sponsored by Directors Think Tank, the event will be followed by a student MasterClass and portfolio reviews with Level Up.  

The One Club for Creativity’s ONE Asia Creative Awards will mark a milestone this October as judging takes place in Malaysia for the very first time. From 17–19 October 2026, 42 judges representing 15 countries and regions will convene at The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur, underscoring the city’s growing role as a hub for creative excellence in the Asia-Pacific region.  

The judging sessions will be sponsored exclusively by Malaysian production company Directors Think Tank, whose involvement highlights the strength and ambition of Malaysia’s creative industry. Their partnership ensures that the judging process is not only logistically supported but also firmly rooted in the local creative landscape, offering international jurors a glimpse into the country’s vibrant production culture.  

The decision to bring the judging to Kuala Lumpur reflects The One Club’s commitment to engaging with diverse creative communities across Asia. By situating the evaluation process in Malaysia, the awards extend their reach beyond traditional centres of creativity, acknowledging the dynamism and innovation emerging from Southeast Asia. For the judges, the gathering provides an opportunity to exchange perspectives and celebrate the region’s distinctive cultural narratives, while for Malaysia, it represents a chance to showcase its creative talent on a global stage.  

Following the judging, the programme will continue with a student-focused initiative on 20 October. A MasterClass and portfolio reviews, presented in collaboration with Level Up, will give young Malaysian creatives direct access to some of the most influential leaders in the industry. This educational component is designed to inspire and equip the next generation, offering practical insights into the demands of the creative profession and fostering connections that could shape future careers. Details of the MasterClass will be announced shortly, but its inclusion signals a broader vision for the awards: not only to celebrate outstanding work but also to nurture emerging talent.  

The ONE Asia Creative Awards have long been recognised as a benchmark for creative achievement across the region, celebrating innovation in advertising, design, and branded content. By bringing the judging to Kuala Lumpur, the awards reinforce their mission to spotlight diverse voices and perspectives, ensuring that the competition reflects the full breadth of creativity across Asia. The presence of 42 judges from such a wide range of countries and regions further strengthens the awards’ credibility, ensuring that the evaluation process is both rigorous and inclusive.  

For Malaysia’s creative community, the event is more than just an international gathering; it is a validation of the country’s growing influence in the global creative economy. The combination of judging sessions, industry collaboration, and student engagement positions Kuala Lumpur as a focal point for creativity in 2026, offering a platform for both established professionals and aspiring talents to shine.