Two years on from the opening of Merdekarya is a neighbourhood bar that's more like a community hub for local artists to express themselves through music, poetry, art, and events. Two years on since its establishment, Brain Gomez talks about the importance of creating safe spaces where new talent can be nurtured. We also discuss Publika, which calls itself an urban centre for creative activity, to talk about art initiatives, how Malaysians have been responding to them, and the role that Malaysian enterprises can play in fostering an art-conscious and receptive society.