We propose an approach to deal with the problem of freeform surface illumination design without assuming any symmetry based on the concept that this problem is similar to the problem of optimal mass transport. With this approach, the freeform design is converted into a nonlinear boundary problem for the elliptic Monge-Ampére equation. The theory and numerical method are given for solving this boundary problem. Experimental results show the feasibility of this approach in tackling this freeform design problem.