GOODBYE, SPOTLIGHT MALAYSIA

Late last year, I heard rumours that Spotlight was closing its doors in Malaysia. The staff said they haven’t gotten any memo yet on the closure. But it is confirmed now. I felt an unexpected ache—like losing a dear friend who had quietly, consistently been part of my creative journey. It wasn’t just a shop I visited; it was the place where my love for crocheting and sewing was not only supported but truly ignited.

More often than not, I would walk into Spotlight with no clear project in mind—and walk out with arms full of colourful yarn, a couple of crochet hooks (although I already have plenty!), and a head buzzing with ideas.

Every visit sparked creativity, joy, and self-discovery. From soft pastels to bold, textured fibres, Spotlight’s yarn section was a playground for the senses. Every colour told a story; every skein held potential. It became a ritual—those quiet, happy trips where I’d browse, dream, and imagine my next handmade piece. Scarves, baby blankets, bags… all of it began with yarn I found there.

But it wasn’t just about crochet. I bought my first sewing machine at Spotlight—and that was another life-changing moment. I remember circling the display three times before finally making the decision. That machine became my ticket into a whole new world: fabric, thread, zippers, patterns, and endless trial and error.

Spotlight had everything I needed as a beginner—tools, materials, and, most importantly, inspiration. I made my first tote bag with fabric from there. I spent hours comparing cotton blends and dreaming of making my own clothes.

They didn’t just sell fabric; they sold the possibility of creating something with your own two hands.

Spotlight was a creative haven—a space where I could browse freely, touch, feel, and imagine endless possibilities.

There was a special comfort in knowing I could always count on Spotlight when I needed something last-minute for a project: the exact shade of yarn to finish a baby blanket, the fabric and thread for a hardanger piece, or simply a dose of creative inspiration when I was feeling stuck.

I’m sad that Spotlight will no longer be there. It played a pivotal role in my creative journey—it was my trusted supplier, my go-to resource, and sometimes, my sanctuary.

But more than sadness, I feel gratitude—for every aisle that sparked an idea, for every skein of yarn that became a gift, and for the sewing machine that changed the way I saw fabric. For being part of my journey—even just for a chapter.

To Spotlight Malaysia: thank you for feeding my creativity, fuelling my passion, and filling my life with colour, texture, and joy. You’ll always be part of the story behind every handmade thing I create.

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