Fifteen years after first entering the Malaysian market, Esquire is set to make a comeback, led by Hearst Magazines International in partnership with Singapore-based Heart Media Group. The relaunch comes at a time when Malaysia’s media landscape is undergoing rapid transformation. While print continues to find value among niche and affluent audiences, digital platforms have become essential for storytelling, audience growth and brand partnerships. The new iteration of Esquire will attempt to bridge these worlds, renewing the brand’s reputation for literary-driven journalism while embracing formats built for modern consumption.
In addition to its U.S. flagship, Esquire publishes 25 editions around the world. Esquire Malaysia, however, aims to cater to the contemporary Malaysian reader with coverage spanning fashion, culture, food, technology, watches and the arts. Content will be informed by the brand’s international network, which includes more than 20 global editions, but told through a distinctly local perspective.
“We are proud to bring Esquire back to Malaysia,” said Olivier Burlot, CEO of Heart Media Group. “The brand has always stood for discernment and character and those values resonate strongly with Heart Media’s own philosophies. Together, we aim to highlight what it means to be a modern Malaysian and to be the bridge between local talents, audiences and brand partners.”
In print, Esquire Malaysia will maintain the brand’s established focus on long-form features and narrative journalism, while also offering a platform for Malaysian literary voices. Online, the publication will expand into video, data-led storytelling and other interactive formats designed to meet readers where they already are.
Editorial operations will be led by Stuart Danker, who joins as editor-in-chief. With experience in news, lifestyle and fiction writing, Danker sees the relaunch as an opportunity to serve a gap in the market. “There is a huge gap in the market that only Esquire is able to fill, and it is our aim to inspire and inform this audience, mainly those who are curious about living their best lives,” he said.
Hearst Magazines International sees the move as a strategic expansion of the brand’s global presence. “We’re pleased to bring Esquire back to Malaysia with Olivier and Stuart at the helm,” said Kim St Clair Bodden, senior vice president and global editorial and brand director. “This will be a bold new chapter for the brand.”
Esquire Malaysia will publish ten print issues annually starting March 2026, with its digital platforms launching ahead of print in January.
Visit www.heart-media.com or email info@heart-media.com for more information.
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