KUALA LUMPUR – Internationally acclaimed Lithuanian artist Ernest Zacharevic, famed for his Penang street mural “Kids on Bicycle”, has taken legal action against AirAsia Berhad, alleging copyright infringement over the unauthorised use of his artwork on the livery of an aircraft in 2024.
The lawsuit, filed at the High Court here today, names AirAsia Berhad and its parent company Capital A Berhad as defendants. Zacharevic, who is both the author and copyright owner of the mural, claims his work was reproduced and displayed without consent.
According to the Penang-based artist, he discovered in October 2024 that “Kids on Bicycle” had been emblazoned across the fuselage of an AirAsia aircraft, which was then flown publicly, effectively turning the plane into a moving billboard.
The plaintiff alleges the airline not only reproduced and displayed the mural but also adapted it without his knowledge, licence or authorisation.
Zacharevic further contends this was not an isolated incident. He claims AirAsia and its affiliates have engaged in a pattern of unauthorised use of his artwork across promotional and advertising campaigns dating back to 2016.
The artist is seeking relief for infringement of his copyright and moral rights, as well as claims of passing off and unlawful interference with his trade.
Among the remedies sought are declarations recognising his rights, injunctions to restrain further unauthorised use, and court orders for the removal and destruction of infringing materials.
He is also demanding monetary compensation deemed appropriate by the court.
Zacharevic is represented by counsel Joachim Francis Xavier, who confirmed the filing today.
The case is expected to draw significant attention, not only because of Zacharevic’s international reputation but also due to its potential implications for intellectual property rights in Malaysia’s creative and aviation industries. – February 9, 2026