A 19-year-old Singaporean visual artist with autism has achieved international recognition as his artwork is now being distributed at the Singapore Pavilion during the COP30 climate conference in Belém, Brazil. Mohammad Zulkhairi Lutfi Mohd Azam designed a commemorative pin that depicts trees, a pond, and public housing blocks, representing what he describes as a harmonious balance between nature and Singapore's urban environment.
The pin is part of a collection showcasing Singapore's design and cultural icons being given to visitors at the pavilion. Other pins in the collaboration with the Singapore Tourism Board feature the iconic Supertrees from Gardens by the Bay alongside local wildlife, and Singapore's beloved Merlion mascot. These small pieces serve as cultural ambassadors, allowing international visitors to take home a representation of the city-state.
Zulkhairi, who was diagnosed with autism at age three and also has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, expressed his joy about the international exposure of his work. "I'm feeling happy and very proud... The artwork that I did – I hope people will like it a lot," he said with a smile during an interview. His design process involved conducting independent research to develop the story behind his artwork, followed by sketching three or four preliminary designs before settling on the final version.
"I draw the sketch on the paper to plan my idea. After I confirm the design, I will sketch on my laptop," Zulkhairi explained about his creative process. During the interview, he spoke in simple sentences, with his parents – Mr Azam Jibani, 51, a regional manager in the medical industry, and Madam Wahidah Ismail, 47, a homemaker – occasionally stepping in to elaborate on his thoughts. While speaking, he opened his sketchbook and began sketching Gundam robots, revealing his passion for the Japanese robot franchise and his collection of approximately 50 figurines at home.
Zulkhairi's artistic talent was first discovered when he was around six or seven years old while attending an Early Intervention Programme for Infants and Children center operated by Thye Hua Kwan Moral Charities. The center recognized his natural flair for art and noted that artistic activities helped him maintain focus and concentration. "I always love to draw," Zulkhairi said when asked about the development of his artistic interest.
Following this early recognition, he attended Eden School, which specializes in education for students with autism, where he continued to develop his artistic skills through formal art lessons. His parents actively supported his passion by purchasing art supplies and encouraging him to pursue his creative interests. According to his father, "The laptop is like his life. Whenever he is done with his projects, he will spend his time doing his artwork. Art is like an escape for him because he is busy with athletics."
Zulkhairi's talents extend beyond the visual arts into athletics, where he has achieved remarkable success. He represented Singapore at the Special Olympics World Games in Berlin, Germany, in 2023, where his team placed first in the 4x400m mixed relay event. This achievement demonstrates his ability to excel in multiple disciplines despite the challenges associated with his conditions.
Since graduating from Eden School in 2023, Zulkhairi has been working on commissioned art pieces through ART:DIS, a non-profit organization that enables people with disabilities to develop their artistic interests and careers. The organization facilitated his mentorship in 2024 under established artist Justin Lee, who is renowned for his visual installations including "Pillars Of Harmony" and "Our People, Our Lifestyle," which were showcased at the Esplanade concourse and tunnel spaces.
In 2025, Zulkhairi has already accepted seven commissions through ART:DIS, including his pin design for the Singapore Pavilion at the ongoing United Nations climate conference. The pavilion collaborated with SG Enable's imable initiative, which worked with ART:DIS to commission the pin design. His artistic range includes drawings of iconic Singapore buildings and structures, such as Marina Bay Sands and Changi Airport's control tower, which were featured among designs by various artists and printed on recycled polyester tote bags distributed as National Day Parade 2025 packs.
The young artist's achievements have earned him invitations from various organizations, including schools, to share his experiences and artwork with others. His father emphasized Zulkhairi's desire to inspire others through his work: "He wants his artwork to inspire other people. If he can do it, others can achieve their dreams too." This message of perseverance and possibility resonates particularly strongly given the challenges he has overcome.
Zulkhairi is particularly drawn to architectural details and demonstrates exceptional skill when drawing buildings and structures. His attention to detail and ability to capture the essence of Singapore's urban landscape while incorporating natural elements reflects a sophisticated understanding of design principles and environmental consciousness that aligns perfectly with the climate conference's themes.
As the interview concluded, Zulkhairi shared his ambitious future plans: "I want to open my own art studio." This goal represents not only personal achievement but also the potential to create opportunities for other artists with disabilities. His journey from a young child discovering art as a means of focus and expression to an internationally recognized artist whose work is featured at a major global event demonstrates the power of support, dedication, and belief in individual potential.
