The South and Southeast Asian Collection
The seed collection of the South and Southeast Asian Collection originated from the University of Malaya Art Museum (1955-1960) that aligned with goals for teaching art history. It includes classical Indian sculptures that belong to the medieval period of 9th-13th century, textiles and ceramics from the region dating from 18th century and modern pieces from Singapore and Malaya.
Part of the original collection was transferred in 1973 upon the formation of the University of Malaya in Kuala Lumpur. Since 1997, the collection has expanded to include works and objects from contemporary Southeast Asia.
Recent notable donations that have been added to the collection include calligraphies and drawings by the art writer Marco Hsu given by the writer’s family; paintings, drawings and woodblock prints by Lim Mu Hue, from the estate of the artist; and a collection of sketches and drawings by Jimmy Ong.
