The official mascot for the 2027 SEA Games, Tuah, has sparked widespread criticism online, with many Malaysians questioning its futuristic appearance and speculating that the design was created using artificial intelligence (AI).
The mascot was unveiled on Monday during the launch of the official branding for the 2027 SEA Games and ASEAN Para Games at IOI City Mall, Putrajaya.
While organisers introduced Tuah as a symbol of determination, progress and the future of Southeast Asian sport, the reaction on social media was largely negative. Many users described the mascot as uninspiring, lacking originality and failing to capture a distinct Malaysian identity.
Some netizens also questioned why the organisers did not collaborate with local animation studios such as Monsta or Les’ Copaque, whose internationally recognised creations have helped establish Malaysia as a leading player in the regional animation industry.
Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohamed Taufiq Johari said the name “Tuah” was selected to represent success, excellence and good fortune earned through hard work, discipline, perseverance, loyalty and unity.
He said the mascot embodies the values of sporting excellence while reflecting the spirit of both Malaysia and the wider ASEAN community.
During the same event, the ministry also introduced the official theme for the 2027 Games, “Raikan Perpaduan” (Celebrating Unity), which highlights Malaysia’s belief that unity remains the country’s greatest strength while symbolising the shared bond among ASEAN nations.
The official Games logo was also revealed, featuring design elements intended to represent Malaysia’s aspiration to unite Southeast Asia through sport.
Mohamed Taufiq said the theme is more than a branding exercise, describing it as a message encouraging athletes to push beyond their limits while embracing unity and resilience.
Despite the organisers’ vision, online debate over Tuah’s design has continued to dominate social media, with many Malaysians calling for a mascot that better reflects the nation’s creativity, culture and artistic identity.
