Cover Jetsetter Jas Chin opens up about her whimsical collection of over 150 Labubus (Photo: Fady Younis)
Jetsetter Jas Chin opens up about her whimsical collection of over 150 Labubus (Photo: Fady Younis)
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Jetsetter Jas Chin opens up about her whimsical collection of over 150 Labubus—rare designer figurines she sees as art, joy, and self-expression
When you first meet Jas Chin, there’s a quiet elegance to her. Impeccably styled, poised with a jetsetter’s air and a financier’s composure, she exudes sophistication. But behind the sleek tailoring and curated accessories lies a playful, almost whimsical passion: an extensive personal collection of Labubus—the mischievously adorable designer figurines that have taken the global collector community by storm.
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With over 150 Labubus in her personal trove—some fetching up to RM13,000 each—Chin isn’t just a casual fan. She’s a connoisseur. “It started with curiosity,” she recalls. “But now they’ve become like little art pieces I live with. They’re a form of self-expression that resonates with my inner child.” Her collection reads like a capsule gallery—part toy store, part fashion archive and part emotional journal.
Above Chin with one of her most expensive Labubu dolls, valued at approximately RM13,000
Chin with one of her most expensive Labubu dolls, valued at approximately RM13,000
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One piece that stands out is her Labubu x Vans collaboration, one of only 3,275 made worldwide. “That one’s my favourite, not just because of its rarity and value, but because I chased it for months,” she says. “Securing it felt like winning a mini auction of joy.”
And true to her fashionista roots, Chin doesn’t just display her Labubus behind glass. They travel with her—often clipped onto designer bags or styled to match her outfit. “They’re my little companions. I bring them out with me to complement my style.”
But her fascination with Labubus runs deeper than aesthetics. “They’re not just cute collectibles,” she explains. “They spark creativity. They act like little memory capsules, reminding me of the joy and playfulness we often lose as adults.” Her Instagram, filled with charming snapshots of her Labubu adventures, reflects that same whimsical energy. From cafe counters to airport lounges, her Labubus accompany her like mascots of joy.
Though her collection already includes the entire Labubu family, including the coveted Let’s Checkmate series, Chin remains open to surprises. “I’m not actively chasing any at the moment,” she admits, “but I’m always ready for a surprise drop or a hidden gem. That’s part of the fun.”
Above Chin’s collection has grown into a creative outlet—an ever-evolving expression of joy, identity, and nostalgia
Chin’s collection has grown into a creative outlet—an ever-evolving expression of joy, identity, and nostalgia
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When asked whether she relates Labubu collecting to NFTs (non-fungible tokens), Chin sees clear parallels. “Both are about ownership, identity, and rarity. But unlike NFTs, I can actually hold these. I can dress them up, carry them around, even make them part of my everyday look. They bring tangible joy.”
The journey from one curious purchase to a full-fledged collection came with its own set of highlights. “It snowballed fast,” she laughs. “One turned into ten, and then I was trading with collectors around the world. Some of my favourite memories come from unboxing new pieces with friends. It became a shared ritual, a community.”
More than an investment, Chin’s collection has grown into a creative outlet—an ever-evolving expression of joy, identity, and nostalgia. “It’s emotional. It’s nostalgic. Just like how we played dress-up with dolls when we were younger, these Labubus allow me to revisit that freedom and create little fantasy worlds and just play again.”
For Jas Chin, collecting Labubus isn’t just about chasing the rarest figurines or curating the perfect shelf. It’s about crafting a life filled with character, imagination, and delight.
In a world that often prioritises polish over play, her collection reminds us that embracing our quirks can be the ultimate luxury.
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Photography: Fady Younis
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Quinny Tan is the Social Media Manager of Tatler Malaysia, where she leads the growth and strategy of the brand’s social presence while overseeing content output, ensuring the brand's voice resonates with both longstanding readers and new communities in the digital space. In recent years, she has worn several hats across the media landscape—having served as a writer, video producer, video editor, and on-camera host.
Outside of work, she can be coaxed out of her default doom-scrolling state with an iced black coffee, reruns of Prison Break, and a quick-shuffle of Red Hot Chili Peppers' discography. Find her at the nearest, spiciest sazerac whilst building rapport with anyone who has a good story to tell, with mic in hand.
