KUCHING: Richard Lee, 38, from Sibu is a limited figurine collector who acquires and amasses a variety of limited edition figurines from various games, anime and even cartoons.
He invests considerable time and effort in researching, tracking down and acquiring the collectibles that he likes.
“I only collect those figurines that I like. If I like a certain anime, comics and so on, I will scout for the limited edition figurines and nowadays, there is a lot that can be collected.
“People might see these figurines as toys but for us (collectors), it is an art,” he said.
He said this when met by the New Sarawak Tribune at the World of Manga event at Aeroville Mall here yesterday.
Lee, who is also the event’s organising chairman, added that it aimed to bring all the artists together to showcase their merchandise and talents to the world and Sarawak in particular.
“I created Artistic, Gaming, and Entertainment (AGE) and organised this event to let people know that we appreciate these kinds of arts, not only drawings.
“For instance, this One Piece inspired ship here is created by team YTS Hobby. We give a platform to our local artists to bring, make and show their talents. If not, no one will appreciate them.
“That is why I organised this event under AGE,” he said.
Sharing on his experience, Lee said that he started collecting ever since he was very small.
“The priciest collectible that I have is the Hulkbuster. But all in all, I love each and every collection that I have because I pick them myself,” he said.
According to him, all the pieces that he collected were all pre–ordered and he took over one year to receive all of them.
“There are usually only 300 pieces of the limited edition merchandise worldwide. Once we (collectors), 300 of us, place our pre-orders, only then will they be made,” he added.
Asked if he was willing to sell his figurines, he replied, “Yes. I will sell them for the same prices I bought them.”
Lee hoped more such events would be organised by like-minded collectors.
“We need events that have exhibitions and gatherings and are not only open for vendors. By doing so, we (collectors) will be able to come and share our passion together. I am here in Kuching to meet more collectors and make a lot of friends.
“I have been holding similar events in Sibu and Miri. I hope I can also share my passion, joy and collections with fellow Kuchingites,” he said.
