PETALING JAYA: Star Wars fans have gathered in full force here after “surviving” two years of Covid-19 restrictions.

       These enthusiasts, young and old, came in their costumes during a fan convention that was held over the weekend.

       Greeting visitors at the main entrance with his lightsaber was IT programmer Mohd Hafiz Che Ab Aziz, 34, who was dressed as Kylo Ren.

       “I am so happy that finally, I can meet my Star Wars friends and wear my costume again after two years,” said Hafiz, who spent more than RM3,000, piecing together the cosplay costume.

       As for Mohd Fazirul Ismail, he was delighted to find out about the event a month ago.

       The 33-year-old research and development assistant said he hadn’t had a chance to wear his do-it-yourself X-Wing pilot cosplay outfit prior to this.

       “I am happy that I finally got to wear the costume after all my hard work,” he said, adding that he spent about a year putting it together with the help of a friend.

       The last time he joined such an event was in 2019.

       “It felt like celebrating Hari Raya today (yesterday),” he quipped.

       “Finally, I can meet my friends. Prior to this, we would just chat on social media.

       First order of business: Jennifer Lim (front) taking a wefie with other ‘Star Wars’ fans in full cosplay regalia at the convention held in Petaling Jaya. — AZHAR MAHFOF/The Star

       “It is nice to find someone whom we can share our hobby with while also looking at some new collectibles,” he said.

       Lecturer Kiki Haslan said that such events allowed her to embrace her inner child along with others who shared a passion for all things Star Wars.

       “It is actually quite nice (to be able to attend the gathering) because it is hard to find someone who shares the same hobby on a day-to-day basis.

       “So when you get the opportunity, it makes you feel like a kid all over again,” said Kiki, 33.

       Furthermore, she could not afford to buy some of the memorabilia in her younger days.

       Yesterday, she set her sight on some Star Wars artwork at one of the booths.

       Event organiser, Star Wars Malaysia Fan Club president Sanjiv Indran, said: “I’m so excited to meet our Star Wars family members after so long.

       “During the pandemic, many of our events had to be conducted virtually,” he added.

       Now, the hope is to bring in other Star Wars international clubs for future events.

       “We plan to invite other clubs in the South-East region to Malaysia because there’s much to offer here,” he said.