From kopitiam miniatures to Care Bears: Play Nation opens flagship pop-up at TRX

Play Nation’s Beach Party-themed counter features a selection of character merchandise and collectibles at The Exchange TRX. — Picture courtesy of Play Nation

First Published: Sunday, 11 Oct 2026 4:06 PM MYT

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 — Singapore-based lifestyle and collectibles brand Play Nation has expanded into Malaysia with a flagship pop-up at The Exchange TRX, featuring miniature replicas of familiar local establishments, character merchandise and interactive activities.

Officially launched on September 24, the pop-up brings together collections and collaborations with popular franchises including Care Bears, Sanrio and LINE Friends.

According to a press release from Play Nation, the launch follows several previous collaborations and promotional activities in Malaysia, as the company seeks to establish a stronger presence among local collectors.

A miniature Cinnamoroll figurine displayed inside a personalised decorative bottle, one of the creations available at Play Nation’s DIY Bar. — Picture courtesy of Play Nation

“We’ve spent nearly two decades building Play Nation and bringing it to fans around the world, including Malaysia,” co-founder and chief executive officer Kai Jun Wong said.

Among the main attractions is the Play Nation Heritage Series, featuring miniature building-block versions of traditional shophouses, neighbourhood provision shops and kopitiam establishments, alongside kaya butter toast laptop sleeves and coffee and milk tea-themed tote bags.

Other collections include Care Bears plush blind boxes, Sanrio character accessories and LINE Friends building sets inspired by Korean convenience-store products.

Visitors can create personalised ocean-themed keepsakes at the DIY Bar within Play Nation’s flagship pop-up at The Exchange TRX. — Picture courtesy of Play Nation

Visitors can also create their own ocean-themed decorative bottles using miniature figurines, sand, shells and pebbles for RM29.90 each, or receive one complimentary with a minimum purchase of RM150.

Selected merchandise is available at promotional prices, including Care Bears wireless Bluetooth earbuds at RM69.90 throughout October, down from RM129.90, while the Play Nation Heritage Tiffin Carrier will be offered at RM39.90 in November.

Beyond The Exchange TRX, Play Nation has established a standalone pop-up at Intermark Mall and dedicated retail spaces at selected Parkson outlets, including 1 Utama, IOI City Mall, Sunway Velocity, Labuan and Setia City Mall.

A display of colourful Care Bears plush toys and backpacks at Play Nation’s flagship pop-up at The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur. — Picture courtesy of Play Nation

The flagship pop-up is located on the Concourse Level of The Exchange TRX and operates daily from 10am to 10pm, according to the company.