A Filipino Graphic Designer
based in Ōtautahi, New Zealand
Malaya:
A goodbye for someone I held dear
Output:
Typeface · Publication · Motion Graphics
Origin:
Student Project
Purpose:

In dedication to Merla Albao Pacaña.

Malaya is a typographic expression that honours Filipino culture and values. Its inspiration comes from the literary work of Carlos P. Romulo — ‘I am a Filipino’.

One particular paragraph reads…“I am a Filipino born to freedom, and I shall not rest until freedom shall have been added unto my inheritance—for myself and my children and my children’s children—forever.” (Romulo, 1941).

Its design draws from "Baybayin", a pre-colonial script, and integrates elegant curves onto the Latin alphabet. Malaya's serif reflects the "Mano", a Filipino gesture of respect to elders.

Despite targeting Filipinos, it raises the question: Will global design homogenize cultural traditions? No, as a Filipino Kiwi, I believe history will always be interconnected wherever you may be.

Malaya is a font that bridges us to our ancestors as we journey into the unknown future.

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Work:
Endosoothe:
Comforting every body
SCAPE Season 25:
An exchange of gifts
Endurer:
A quiet wine label
Te Tahi Youth:
Understanding complex emotions
Malaya:
A goodbye for someone I held dear