20 Years of the Traveler’s Spirit: A Journey Shared with Tabiyo
Time has a way of leaving its mark, much like the beautiful patina that develops on a well-loved leather cover. As TRAVELER’S notebook marks its landmark 20th Anniversary, I find myself reflecting deeply on my own path. This year is doubly special, as it also marks fourteen wonderful years for Tabiyo. My story with this community began back in 2012 with a simple Brown leather set, gifted to me by a friend who had traveled to Japan. While the specific words I first wrote inside have long since faded into memory, I can still vividly recall the physical sensation of holding that leather for the first time. It felt like more than just stationery; it felt like an invitation to a new way of living. Back then, our journaling community was tiny, but the passion was immense. I still remember the faces of those very first users who supported us when our shelves held nothing but TN covers and refills. Looking back, it is clear that this notebook didn't just hold my notes—it completely changed the trajectory of my life and my career.
My story with this community began back in 2012 with a simple Brown leather set, but it was in 2016 that I truly felt the magic of these milestones. I remember the excitement surrounding the 10th Anniversary—that iconic mini TN tucked inside its significant tin box. It was a collector's dream, and seeing how our community cherished those tiny notebooks made me realize that TRAVELER’S notebook was more than just stationery; it was a lifelong companion.
That realization only grew stronger in 2020, when Tabiyo officially became the first Partner Shop in Southeast Asia. It was the happiest moment for us to receive that recognition from the TRC team; it felt like a heartfelt "nod" to all the years we spent nurturing this community in Malaysia.
This relationship reached a new height in 2024 when we finally hosted the team for the first Caravan event in Malaysia. Welcoming them to my hometown of Seremban felt like a beautiful "full circle" moment. Beyond the busy event itself, what I remember most fondly is the simple joy of sharing our local food with them and seeing how much they enjoyed every bite. During that Caravan, the energy in the shop was electric. Seeing our users—many of whom had traveled long distances—finally meeting the founders in person reminded me why Tabiyo exists. It wasn't just a brand meeting its customers; it was a gathering of friends reconnecting through a shared language of paper and ink.
Over the past fourteen years, my own journaling style has evolved, but my favorite moments remain the same: the act of traveling with my notebook. There is a specific, quiet joy in collecting the "bits and pieces" of a journey—a ticket stub from a train, a coaster from a hidden cafe, or a pressed flower found along a path. Gathering these fragments and jotting down the raw emotions of the moment is how I preserve my life.
More importantly, I have had the privilege of watching our community grow up. I have seen customers transform from young students into working adults, watched them get married, and eventually welcomed them back to the shop to buy a first notebook for their own children. This notebook has a magical way of connecting people from all backgrounds, turning strangers into close friends who share not just journaling tips, but the genuine ups and downs of life. At the end of the day, Tabiyo has never been just about the shop—it has always been about the people.
The excitement reached a new peak a month ago when we first received the confidential news of the 20th Anniversary Limited Set. The introduction of the Card Size TN is a dream come true for those of us who believe in carrying the "analogue spirit" everywhere we go. It is truly the ultimate everyday companion, designed to be compact enough to live in your pocket, your daily pouch, or even serve as a minimalist wallet. It is built to be there for those sudden sparks of inspiration, no matter where your travels take you.
We know many of you are eagerly waiting to get your hands on this commemorative set, and as a Partner Shop in Malaysia, we want to ensure this milestone is celebrated with fairness and care. Please stay tuned as we will announce the full details and how to purchase by the middle of March.
Thank you for being part of the Tabiyo story. We can't wait to see for the official release date!
