Johnny Lau Handoffs Mr Kiasu: A New Chapter Begins
After almost 30 years of bringing the iconic Mr Kiasu comics to life, Johnny Lau is ready to step aside and hand the reins to a fresh wave of talent. In his latest book, Mr Kiasu In Singapore History, he is passing on the legacy while giving readers a peek into what the future of the character looks like under new artistic hands.
Eight Artists, One Vision
- The book features illustrations from eight different artists, each bringing a unique style to a distinct era in Singapore’s past.
- It’s a visual journey that shows how the art of Mr Kiasu could evolve once Lau retires.
- These artists will help keep the spirit of Singapore alive in the pages that follow.
What Johnny Wants
“This is my legacy. I’m stepping back so young, up-and-coming artists can build on this platform and maybe become a big name themselves,” Lau said, speaking to The New Paper.
He added, “This isn’t the very last Mr Kiasu book I’ll produce, but it’s pretty close—looking forward to new comics, new adventures. Mr Kiasu is a Singaporean treasure; it’s high time it belongs more openly to Singapore.”
Support from the Singapore Bicentennial Office
Backed by the Singapore Bicentennial Office, the anthology charts moments that defined our island nation—turmoil, triumph, and everything that made Singapore what it is today.
Art Meets Identity
His long‑time friend, Chia Yu Chin, who oversaw the “Singapore Sling” chapter, highlighted the need to showcase Singaporean identity to younger generations. “We want to show that things like Mr Kiasu, hawker culture, and the MRT are all part of what makes Singapore vibrant and unique,” Chia said.
Entertainment Over Education
Johnny emphasized that the book is meant to entertain rather than serve as a textbook or patriotic manifesto. He hopes readers will get a sense of historical figures and, more importantly, spark their curiosity to learn the full story themselves.
“Reaching where we are today in Singapore wasn’t a walk in the park. I’m grateful and never take it for granted,” he mused.
Where to Buy
- Available at the Fort Canning Bicentennial Experience for students: $9.90
- For the general public: $12.90 at all major bookstores
Originally published in The New Paper, this article reflects Johnny Lau’s retirement moment and the transition of a beloved comic icon into the hands of fresh, creative minds.
