Ploom and street artist Kenji Chai at Milan Design Week 2025​

Malaysian muralist Kenji Chai is part of the international lineup of designer who have collaborated with Ploom for Milan Design Week 2025. An Augustman Man of the Year and recognized for his contributions to street art and culture, his works are normally displayed on a much larger urban canvas. ​

He tapped into his design ethos to create one of six unique front panels for Ploom X Advanced that are at the heart of Ploom’s immersive experience for Milan Design Week 2025.

Connected sensations and placing works of art in the palm of people’s hands​

Asked about what sensoriality means to him, Chai explained: “Sensoriality, to me, is about engaging all the senses to create a deep, immersive experience. In my art, I use bold colors, intricate details and dynamic compositions to evoke emotions and spark the imagination.” ​

“It’s not just about what you see—it’s about what you feel when you look at it.” ​

His limited edition Ploom X Advanced front panel artwork for MDW 2025 is inspired by the concept of Yin and Yang, symbolizing the balance between technology and nature. It also represents Malaysia as a whole - where West Malaysia embodies rapid modernization and a fast-paced lifestyle, while East Malaysia reflects the country’s rich natural beauty and serene landscapes. ​

To capture this harmony, he incorporated various elements into the piece, such as a half-butterfly, an orangutan, a Rafflesia, and a hornbill hidden among the leaves he designed. These details blend together to illustrate the coexistence of progress and nature. ​

He added: “To further emphasize the Yin-Yang balance, I used a mix of silver, black, and white tones alongside vibrant colors, visually contrasting the duality of these worlds. Near the bottom, I have also infused my alter ego, Chaigo, to represent my journey, of chasing my dreams. As someone from East Malaysia, Sandakan, Sabah, this piece reflects my roots and aspirations, bridging both worlds through art.”​

Connections in the exploration of pleasure ​

For Ploom, working with a curated list of designers to express sensoriality and explore what pleasure means to them was a fitting concept for MDW 2025. Ploom’s unique heated tobacco devices are enabling adult smokers to reimagine their moments of tobacco pleasure, making it more meaningful. ​

“Pleasure, to me, is about freedom,” he commented. “Freedom to create, to express, and to connect with people through my art. It’s that feeling when you step back and see your vision come to life, knowing that it resonates with others. It’s in the process, the challenge, and the satisfaction of completing something meaningful.” ​

“What excites me most about having my work showcased at Milan Design Week is the opportunity to share my art & Malaysian artistic culture on such a global stage. Milan is a city that breathes creativity, and having my work displayed among the best in the world is truly an honor. It’s a moment of pride not just for me, but for the Malaysian street art community as well.”

Find the street art of Kenji Chai at Milan Design Week 2025​

Find out more about the Ploom Milan Design Week 2025 experience.​