Collektr, Asia's foremost livestreaming platform for collectibles, recently raised over RM38,000 in under an hour to bring electricity to Borneo's remote areas.
The charity art auction, "The Gift of Light", saw Sabahan artist Hannah Bhatt, founder of The Uncanny Valley Studios, and Light Up Borneo, an NGO focused on providing electricity to Borneo's remote areas, come together to support Light Up Borneo's hydroelectric power project for Kg Sumatalun, Pagalungan, Sabah.
This charity art auction featured 20 stunning ceramic works sculpted by Hannah Bhatt, complemented by illustrations and paintings from prominent artists, including Pangrok Sulap, a Malaysian collective of artists, musicians, and social activists dedicated to empowering rural and marginalized communities through art.
Playing a crucial role in supporting artists and a good cause.
IMAGE: Collektr
Collektr played a crucial role in facilitating the bidding and auction process, providing a platform for art enthusiasts to engage with the artworks and support the cause.
The auction saw enthusiastic participation and quickly exceeded the target amount.
The raised funds will provide hydroelectric power to 28 houses and two public buildings in Kg Sumatalun, Pagalungan, significantly enhancing the quality of life for its residents.
Although the primary goal has been achieved, additional pieces are still available for purchase, allowing ongoing support for this essential project.
"We are overwhelmed by the generosity and support from the community," said Saida Azizi, Co-founder of Collektr.
"This auction not only highlights the brilliance of local artists like Afi Sulaiman, Ajim Juxta, Cheng Hao Yuan, Dianne T (Misorama Studios), Drewfunk, Fay Ulrica, Firdauz Baharudin (Seburba), Fritilldea, Haris Rashid, Kenji Chai, Kevin Loo, Lisa Wong Sook Kuan, Liu Hsin Ying, Nurul Atika, OLI, Pangrok Sulap, Su ann (Wayang Kulit Tatu), Trina Teoh, and Venice Chau Xhien, who collaborated with Hannah; we are also igniting a movement where every bid becomes a beacon of hope, making a tangible impact in the lives of those in need," Saidi added.
Meanwhile, Hannah said as an artist rooted in Sabahan culture, she witnessed firsthand the transformative power of art.
"Teaming up with Collektr for the Light Up Borneo project allows me to showcase Sabahan art and illuminate paths to a brighter future for my community."
How Malaysian artists are supporting important causes.
IMAGE: Collektr
In the past five years, Malaysian artists have consistently supported various charitable causes.
Notable efforts include Pangrok Sulap's initiatives for rural education, Haris Rashid's collaborations with environmental NGOs to protect local wildlife, and Kenji Chai's urban art projects raising awareness and funds for homeless shelters in Kuala Lumpur.
These contributions underscore the role of art in driving social change, fostering a culture of giving, and supporting communities in need.
Collektr’s innovative live streaming bidding capabilities provide a unique opportunity to expand this impact, making charitable auctions accessible to a broader audience and maximizing participation and engagement.
On Collektr, collectors are able to buy, sell, and trade collectibles from a range of categories including Trading Card Games, Fashion, Art, and more.
The platform is specifically designed to combat scams and deliver authentic collectibles.
