KUCHING: The Otakyun 2023 Anime, Comics, and Games (ACG) Convention at the Raia Hotel and Convention Centre saw a turnout of about 3,000 cosplayers during the weekend.
The convention, set up by the voluntary group Anime Gathering Team, has since become a favourite spot for Anime, Comics, and Games (ACG) fans.
This year, the theme was “Fantasy.” It took inspiration from Western tales deeply connected to mythology and folklore, displaying characters such as adventurers, knights, and wizards.
Akari-chan, the Heroine Paladin, was one of the standout characters this year.
Special guests at the event included Malaysia’s own Anisong singer and cosplayer, Amelia Khor, Ola Aphrodite from Indonesia and Heyleydia from Thailand.
These celebrities shared insights into making a “Career in Cosplay” and also mingled with fans.
Carol Chin, Otakyun’s creative director, said, “Otakyun began in 2014. Since then, we’ve seen the ACG community grow and flourish. We love the passion and unity it brings.”
For those attending, there was no shortage of fun. They could take part in competitions, watch live shows, explore exhibitions, play interactive games, and join a card game tournament.
Isaac Lim, a first-time attendee, said, “The event’s energy was incredible, even if my costume was a bit hot.”
Another fan, Isaac Appat, added, “It was thrilling to see so many in anime outfits!”
Looking ahead, Chin aims to organise more big ACG events in places like West Malaysia and Singapore, hoping to share the full ACG spirit with Sarawak.
