KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI) is looking into allegations that it “stole” a creative agency’s idea for the Malaysia Pavilion at Expo 2025 in Osaka, without providing proper credit or compensation.
On Saturday (April 26), MITI released a brief statement acknowledging the claims that have gained significant attention online, particularly due to a viral Instagram post by user Fey Ilyas.
“MITI is currently conducting a comprehensive investigation to collect and determine all pertinent facts regarding the allegations made by an individual on social media,” the ministry stated, as reported by local news outlet Malay Mail.
“We treat this situation with utmost seriousness and reserve all legal rights. MITI is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and compliance in all its operations. We will pursue necessary legal actions if required,” it added.
Nonetheless, the statement did not identify the individual or agency involved.
The accusations arose after Fey alleged that the ministry had utilized his firm’s concept, theme, narrative, and architectural guidance for the Malaysia Pavilion “without acknowledgment or compensation.”
Fey indicated that in 2022, the ministry had hired his creative consultancy, Current Media Group (CMG), to design the concept for Malaysia’s participation at Expo 2025.
Expo 2025 is a major international exhibition aimed at showcasing nations’ accomplishments. This year’s event is taking place in Osaka, Japan, from April 13 to October 13.
Fey asserted that his team played a significant role in obtaining approvals, recruiting renowned partners, and laying the groundwork for Malaysia’s exhibition at the global expo.
“As a small company, even proper recognition for a project of this magnitude would have helped us enhance our reputation and create new opportunities,” Fey wrote on Instagram.
As of Saturday, the post has received over 24,100 likes and more than 6,000 shares.
Fey also mentioned that he had a direct meeting with Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz to discuss the matter. He further claimed that his agency had been “counseled to remain silent” or face losing future opportunities.
