Malaysian coffeeshop chain Oriental Kopi and Uniqlo Malaysia have sparked controversy following claims that the artwork featured in their UTme! graphic tee collaboration was AI-generated.
Released on Oct 17, the collection included nine limited-edition designs inspired by Oriental Kopi’s well-loved menu items such as nasi lemak, bolo buns, and egg tarts, paying tribute to the nostalgic appeal of Malaysia’s kopitiam culture.
In the days following the launch, online users, especially those from Malaysia’s creative community, began pointing out irregularities in the artwork, such as distorted proportions, uneven details, and pixelated textures, all of which are typical indicators of AI-generated imagery.
Many have criticised the designs as “AI-slop,” drawing attention to merged butter slices, a disappearing spoon under the cendol bowl, a missing prawn head, and a misaligned banana leaf on the nasi lemak.
Netizens also noted that either brand could have hired a local designer to refine the artwork—even if AI was used, an artist should have been brought in to touch up and perfect the designs.
Although it remains unclear whether the designs originated from Uniqlo or Oriental Kopi, Uniqlo’s UT line has long been a key part of its localisation strategy, frequently collaborating with local artists, IP owners, illustrators, museums, and other institutions.
All patterns in the UTme! gallery carries official copyrights, and in some large stores in regional cities, a portion of the designs is created by local artists.
For instance, Uniqlo Malaysia partnered with local design studio Bunga dan Bintang last year, founded by Malaysian illustrator Kirin Sharom. The collaboration featured hand-drawn designs celebrating local food and cultural icons through a line of shirts and tote bags.
In interviews with several illustrators, Chinese media company 36kr noted that Uniqlo’s previous collaborations with local creators had not sparked similar disputes. The illustrators suggested that the root of the problem may lie with Oriental Kopi.
In response to the controversy, Uniqlo’s statement to magazine Marketing-Interactive shared that it is aware of the comments regarding the UTme! designs, and have “taken note of the feedback shared by members of the creative community.” It also said that “Uniqlo has always valued creativity and collaboration,” adding that it is “carefully looking into this matter internally” with its partners.
Oriental Kopi has yet to comment, though Vulcan Post has reached out to the brand for a statement.
Featured Image Credit: Oriental Kopi/ Darrel Cheong
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