It’s a not-so-shocking fact that a significant portion of artists’ revenue comes from merchandise sales, often surpassing what platforms like Spotify can offer them in return. So if you can’t always find time to support artists at their shows and looking for a cost-effective way that also provide greater returns than merely streaming their music, the best way to support them is to buy their merch.

We have compiled some of the best music merch items — this list is not exhaustive! — that are unique, creative, and leave us wanting more. Though some of these merch items have sold out, with a high probability that they will never be released again, this is an opportunity for both listeners and artists to explore innovative ways artists have gone beyond the conventional music merch. Take it as an inspiration for your next merch line or add them to your wishlist.

No Good budu (Sold Out)

From their Tubik Derak zine to 27 pieces of white cloth sewn with patches of spiritual elements, No Good is no stranger to producing ultra-cool merch items that’s far from easy to be replicated. But no other merch items screams their Kelantanese identity louder than “Budu Spesyel” that was introduced in 2022. Dozens of budu were sold exclusively at their merch stalls during shows like Rock The World 2022 and NMF Music Festival, but were never made available online. Kide Baharudin‘s artwork on the bottles playfully displays the ingredient lists in quantities of “Cukup Boh” and “Behey Gi Jah,” adding a touch of humour to the Kelantanese staple food.

Keep an eye on their Instagram for the latest updates on their merch:

MIM boxset (RM55)

Post-rock outfit MIM is releasing their upcoming album “Arakian” in style — a boxset that includes a handmade batik case, lyrics booklet and postcard. At the time of this writing, the pre-order period for the boxset has closed, for now. However, you can still purchase the CD at only RM40. In the meantime, stay tuned for updates on their social media — they might restock it anytime soon.

Jemson jigsaw puzzle (RM199)

Jemson has always been a few steps ahead in terms of their merch game. They offer more than just plain ol’ shirts you can flaunt at the next festivals; their merchandise ranges from caramelized banana jam to socks, and their most recent addition is medium roasted coffee beans, providing their fans with a unique and diverse selection of products.

But their most unconventional merch item to date is none other than a 1000-piece jigsaw puzzle featuring the artwork of their debut self-titled album. The best part? It’s still available for purchase:

Iqbal M. Hot Wheels (Sold Out)

Sold at RM79 each, this limited edition Hot Wheels of a white car covered in Fry Yusof’s artwork was released with only 50 pieces in 2018. Interestingly, this merch was launched before “PSJKB” which was only released the following year. It felt like a grandiose sneak peek for fans, giving them a taste of what to expect from their debut album. And did it work? Clearly, it did.

You can buy Iqbal M.’s merch, including physical copies of “PSJKB” below:

Pasca Sini mug (RM10)

Mugs aren’t the most unique merch items you can bring to the game, but the interesting part lies within their design. Pasca Sini hops off their “Emo Department” train and ventures into a territory that has never been explored before — Nasyidcore. While the genre is primarily defined by its religious lyricism rather than its sound, the term “Nasyidcore” itself sparks intriguing conversations with colleagues who might ask, “Weh, Nasyidcore tu apa?”

Nasyidcore mugs are still available:

Transitions mineral water (RM4.05)

With its tagline “Introduction To Modern Poetry Of Killing Thirstiness,” you may not know what to expect from Transitions latest merch. But for a summary, the alternative rock band has partnered with Mutagen Water to introduce mineral bottles that boast a sleek, on-brand design to complement their dark aesthetics. These bottles will be available for purchase online and at Transitions’ shows, so you can quench your thirst in style between their sets. The mineral bottle comes in two versions: Death or Despair.

The Impatient Sisters activity book (RM20)

From the yellow price tag to the floating cat heads and cover art design reminiscent of late 2000s tween magazines like “Bintang Kecil,” this activity book by the folk trio band, The Impatient Sisters, makes a fantastic merch item for fans of all ages. The activity book includes guitar chords and lyrics from their latest album, “7 Years,” a crossword puzzle, word search, an exclusive interview, coloring pages, and more.

Yuna laptop case (RM118)

As part of her Y5 merch line, Yuna has released a chic laptop bag, among many other items, making it a must-grab gem you can’t afford to miss. Show off your Kipas-Susah-Mati-Yuna badge with this laptop bag, which is crafted from materials resistant to water, oil, and heat, providing your laptop with both protection and style.

Brightburn Haori (RM45)

It’s a no-brainer that a J-rock band like Brightburn would release a merch item that reflects their genre as a whole. Their version of Haori, a traditional Japanese jacket, boasts a monochrome sleek design, making it a must-have in your wardrobe. Although the pre-order has closed, the band has confirmed that a restock will be on its way soon. Stay close on their Instagram, and you might snag yours before it’s gone (again).

Sekumpulan Orang Gila (SOG) Baju Melayu (RM150)

Sekumpulan Orang Gila (SOG) has elevated their merchandise with the introduction of the complete Baju Melayu Teluk Belanga collection. Available exclusively in black — a choice not unexpected — this set allows you to make a statement at upcoming kenduri kahwin, events, and who’s to say, even gigs?Well, why not.

Masdo shoes (RM220)

In March, Masdo made an exciting announcement of its collaboration with Indonesia-based Saint Berkeley in celebration of Hari Raya. The “Masdo Melrose” shoes are available in a wide range of sizes, from 36 to 46, catering to various preferences. These shoes are now available for purchase, offering a stylish option to consider.