The Christmas decoration at the Langkawi International Airport in Kedah this year has caught the attention of Malaysians online recently. Unfortunately, it's for all the wrong reasons.
Specifically, netizens are taking issue with the ‘Christmas tree’ that serves as the centrepiece of the airport's festive decorations, which is sculpted from sand with a unique ‘Under the Sea’ theme. However, many Malaysians have pointed out that the installation bears an unfortunate resemblance to a giant pile of excrement.
The Christmas installation at Langkawi International Airport goes viral for the wrong reasons
A photo of the sand sculpture was shared by user Choong Sim Chung on the Malaysia Education Info (And Homeschooling too) Facebook Group and quickly went viral. As of the time of writing, the post has garnered over 1,500 reactions and 210 shares.
As seen in the photo, the Christmas installation features a large, conical sculpture made of textured sand with a spiralling, tiered design that mimics a Christmas tree, especially with the red glittery star placed at the top. Furthermore, true to its ‘Under the Sea’ theme, it's adorned with colourful starfish and seashells.
In the caption, Choong wrote,
"I’m sorry to say it, but my first impression wasn't of a Christmas tree, but of a giant turd. Forgive me, but whoever designed this and thought it was a good idea might want to reevaluate their design sense. And to think—I just had shellfish for dinner when this came to mind."
Malaysians share their two cents about the design of the Christmas installation
In the comments section, a majority of netizens agreed with Choong regarding the sand sculpture's resemblance to a pile of excrement. One netizen summed it up with 2 words: Holy Sh*t.
Meanwhile, some netizens found the design offensive, with one urging the airport not to bother decorating for Christmas if they have no interest in the festive celebration.
Additionally, one commenter stated that they should've at least sprayed the sculpture in beige to emulate a clean sandy colour instead of leaving it in the dark brown colour seen in the photo.
Conversely, some netizens found no issue with the design, with one praising the uniqueness and creativity of the Christmas installation, arguing that what matters is the heart of creating and preparing a Christmas tree.
Another commenter echoed the same sentiment, stating that it's just a simple Christmas tree with a sea theme.
As the post didn't expressly mention that the Christmas installation is located at Langkawi International Airport, some were shocked when a commenter revealed it was at the airport, noting that her daughter had called it "poo-poo" while seeing it in person.
Knowing the location, one commenter is saddened that this 'Christmas tree' is what Europeans and other Westerners would see if they visit the island during the Christmas season.
It's Malaysia's only ‘Under the Sea’ Christmas installation
Indeed, after a bit of digging (pun intended) about the sand sculpture, it's confirmed that this Christmas installation is located at Langkawi International Airport and will be on display throughout December.
The installation was created by local sand sculptor and visual artist Ikhwan Saloot. The artist, whose real name is Ikhwan Ibrahim, took to Facebook in early December to reveal that the unique decoration is actually Malaysia's only ‘Under the Sea’ Christmas installation.
Attached to the post is a clearer photo of the sand sculpture, which is more flattering than the one shared on the aforementioned viral post. Moreover, the full message at the bottom is visible, which reads, “Selamat Hari Natal & Tahun Baru 2026" (Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2026).
So, what do you guys think of the unique Christmas decoration at Langkawi International Airport? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
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