Latest news with #8thMalaysiaInternationalFilmFestival
New Straits Times
05-08-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Daiyan dreams of starring in international movies
POPULAR singer and actress Daiyan Trisha Mohamad Nasaruddin recently served for the first time as an official ambassador of the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest). She joined actress Siti Saleha Baharom and actor Bront Palarae as Malaysia's three ambassadors for the annual event which culminated in the Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA). Honoured and excited to be selected as MIFFest and MGGA ambassador by the awards' and festival's founder Joanne Goh, Daiyan admitted that she was "most delighted" to be part of a world class event hosted by her home country. In a recent interview with New Straits Times, she admitted that she had served as a brand ambassador for many brands since joining the entertainment industry a decade ago. "While I've promoted many local and foreign brands from the start, MIFFest is the first time that I'm promoting an international film festival, and it's a great honour since I'm pretty new in the film industry," she said. "As an ambassador, I've learnt a lot about filmmaking, met so many brilliant filmmakers and participated in interesting activities such as film workshops and screenings. I especially enjoyed myself at the opening gala, the Asean on Screen event and the MGGA awards night." Daiyan added that while she did not get to watch all of the films in the festival, she attended the screenings of the main winning films and enjoyed them. "All of these films broadened my perspectives on the world around me, and made me realise that we have many, many stories in common, regardless of time, place and language." She is a big follower of international movies and loves Hollywood and South Korean films. "My favourite types of movies are romantic comedies and thrillers. As for local films, I love them too, especially when they are about important topics of public interest, such as fighting terrorists (War on Terror: KL Anarchy) and curbing environmental pollution. Daiyan's favourite Hollywood directors who come up with the best movies are Greta Gerwig, Ari Aster, Richard Linklater, Damien Chazelle, David Fincher and Christopher Nolan. She said: "Greta gave us the amazing Barbie, Ari gave us Eddington, Richard gave us Hit Man, Damien gave us La La Land, David gave us the monumental The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Christopher gave us the superb The Dark Knight trilogy and Oppenheimer." When it comes to non-Hollywood movies, Daiyan loves great animated movies by Japan's legendary Studio Ghibli such as My Neighbour Totoro and Spirited Away. "I'm also a massive fan of Bollywood movies, South Korean movies and Thai movies. It is really hard for me to name my favourites here, because each of them has their own specialties," she said, adding that she could never get enough of them. Of the film festival's movies, Daiyan enjoyed Malaysia's very own Ninavau, Palestine's All That's Left of You and To a Land Unknown, and Germany's Paternal Leave. She said: " All That's Left of You is my favourite as it's a very poignant story about the final moments of a young Palestinian bearing the brunt of terror from Israeli soldiers. I'm really happy that it came out tops in the 8th MIFFest, and I'm even prouder that my country has always been a friend of the people of Palestine." If Daiyan were to act in a non-Hollywood foreign movie, she would love to star in one that is family-oriented and highlights universal human values. "If there is one director from MIFFest whom I would love to work with, it is definitely Cherien Dabis, a brilliant and lovely lady from Palestine who is behind All That's Left of You." Since Daiyan began as a singer before becoming an actress, she is a fan of musical movies. "I grew up enjoying Disney movies, so my all-time favourite movies are Disney movies. As for non-Disney musical movies, La La Land is tops any day!" Daiyan does harbour dreams of producing local movies one day when she has gained sufficient experience. "It's a long way to go, but I would love to produce something light-hearted yet meaningful. If it's a romantic comedy, then bring it on!" Daiyan may enjoy Hollywood and South Korean movies most, but she follows the local movie scene "religiously". "My all-time favourite Malaysian movies are Istanbul Aku Datang, Pisau Cukur, Sepet, Abang Adik, La Luna and Imaginur. "All of them carry important lessons in life, that's what I like about them — they are 'edutainment' movies all the way," she said. When asked about her next big screen project, Daiyan said it was Wantugo, the first "battle royale" film in Malaysia. "It will hit cinemas in November, and I am really looking forward for its premiere."
The Star
26-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Star
Ji Seung-hyun looks forward to trying satay & laksa on his first visit to M'sia
He is in town as one of the presenters at the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival's awards ceremony. Photo:Ji Seung-hyun/Instagram Korean actor Ji Seung-hyun, who recently starred in the hit series Good Partner opposite Jang Na-ra, is in Malaysia for the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest). He will be one of the presenters at the festival's awards ceremony tonight (July 26), co-presenting an award with Malaysian actress Lin Min Chen. During a press meet today at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur, the 43-year-old shared that he had just arrived in the early hours of the morning and hadn't had much sleep. 'I only got to my hotel around 4am. It's my first time here, so honestly, I don't even know exactly where I am yet,' he said with a smile. Still, he expressed excitement about exploring the city and sampling local cuisine during his visit. 'I've tried satay and nasi goreng in Indonesia before, but not in Malaysia,' he said, wondering if the taste is similar here. 'I'd love to try laksa too. I really enjoy trying local food whenever I travel, so I'm definitely looking forward to that.' Aside from presenting at the awards, The Worst of Evil star is also in town to speak about his next project, Bluefish , produced by Malaysian film producer Joanne Goh, the founder of MIFFest. The Pan-Asian collaboration, directed by Lee Sang-hoon and starring Ji in the lead role, is scheduled to begin filming in September. Ji recalled meeting Goh at another regional film festival. 'I was at the Tarang Asian Film Festival to introduce my new film, My Friend Is A Murderer. That's where I met Joanne. She's also the investor and distributor for my next project, and it was actually our first time meeting in person. 'She suggested I come to MIFFest – so this trip came together quite suddenly.' Although he hasn't had the chance to watch any of the festival's films yet, Ji believes collaborations between countries are incredibly meaningful. 'I'd love to return next year for MIFFest.' He also expressed hope to work on a Malaysian production in the future. 'Actually… how about a love story between Malaysia and Korea? That way, I can be in it too,' he said.
New Straits Times
24-07-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Asean countries form joint film production network
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is set to lead efforts to develop the Southeast Asian film industry through the inaugural Asean Film and TV Summit, which was launched yesterday. Deputy Communications Minister, Teo Nie Ching, said that the summit's primary objective is to build collaborative productions among filmmakers from Asean countries. "This three-day summit aims for the establishment of co-productions amongst filmmakers from Asean, a region with a large market and an estimated population of 600 million," she said. "We will discuss filmmaking ideas, innovations, and infrastructure to boost the film industries of Asean countries." Teo was speaking at the summit's opening ceremony, held at GSC MyTown Mall in Cheras. The event is being held in conjunction with the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) and is supported by the National Film Development Corporation (Finas), the Asian Film Alliance Network (AFAN), and the Malaysian Youth Council (MBM). Teo expressed confidence that the summit would lead to the creation of an action plan to strengthen film collaborations between Asean countries. "Although Malaysia has signed co-production agreements with several countries, we do not yet have a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the Asean level," she said. The launch was also attended by MIFFest founder Joanne Goh, Finas Chief Executive Officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, AFAN Secretary-General Lorna Tee, and MBM Vice President Dhanesh Basil. Azmir stated that the event aims to create various new projects through training and collaboration, providing an opportunity for local stories to penetrate the international market. "I hope we all take the opportunity to explore new ideas, get to know new collaborators, and engage in discussions. This event is an opportunity for us to collectively shape the future of ASEAN cinema," he said.
The Sun
23-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
Malaysia proposes 3 ASEAN creative industry initiatives for 2025
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia has unveiled three major initiatives to enhance ASEAN's creative industry under its 2025 chairmanship, focusing on co-productions, sustainability, and youth engagement. Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching announced the plans at the ASEAN Film and TV Summit 2025, held alongside the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest). The proposals include the ASEAN Co-Production Roundtable, a Green Filming and Sustainability Framework, and Youth Story Labs. Teo emphasised these efforts aim to foster inclusive storytelling and regional collaboration. 'We hope to initiate three key areas of collaboration to make ASEAN's creative sector more dynamic and people-centred,' she said. Malaysia's Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI) was highlighted as a success, attracting RM2.71 billion in direct investments since 2013 through 128 projects. Notable productions include Sony Pictures' Lord of the Flies series and local hits like Ejen Ali: The Movie 2, which earned RM59 million globally. Organised by FINAS, MIFFest, and AFAN, the summit serves as a platform for policymakers and creators to discuss co-production opportunities. 'Shared stories will connect and inspire ASEAN,' Teo added. The event concludes on July 26 with the Malaysia Golden Global Awards, honouring regional and international filmmakers. – Bernama
Rakyat Post
16-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Rakyat Post
What's Happening This July Weekend: Pilates, Film Festival, & More
Subscribe to our FREE This weekend seems like a fun-packed one with the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival underway, a new music release party, and a water-filled celebration all the way in Johor. Here are some picks for a fabulous weekend: Legoland Splash Carnival | Until 3 August | Legoland Malaysia | Ticketed event Legoland Malaysia's Splash Carnival promises the wildest, wettest five-week of fun for the whole family. The theme this year is Music Fiesta so expect an exciting lineup of activities and musical performances from Malaysia's up-and-coming stars. Activities to look forward to include Boat Race, Dunk Fest Fun, Melody Quest, Water Limbo, and Beats on the Beach. Remember to get tickets from Legoland Malaysia's official website Rizal van Geyzel Live Standup Comedy | 18 July | KL Comedy Corner | 9pm onwards | Ticketed event Rizal van Geyzel, the co-founder of Crackhouse Comedy Club, is headlining the show this Friday in an intimate setting. Known for his no-holds-barred approach, the audience can expect a hilarious yet thought-provoking show. Tickets cost RM60 for singles while couples (2 pax) cost RM100. Get your tickets from Peatix Pingmin Weekend Market | 18-20 July | Pingmin Hub | 5pm-12am | Free public event This weekend, guests get to enjoy delicious food and drinks and shop for lifestyle goodies like candles, artwork and handicrafts, and clothes. The market is pet-friendly and entry is free. Flow at The Campus | 19 July | The Campus Ampang | 10.30am | Ticketed event Join a high-energy mat Pilates session set to live DJ tracks by Coffeeboy Records this Saturday! It's a strong core-focused class so get ready to leave the class feeling sculpted and chiselled. Remember to bring your own mat. Slots are limited so do get your tickets from The Flow Studio Sip & Indulge Afternoon Tea Party | 19 July | TGV Cinemas | 3pm | Ticketed event TGV Cinemas is throwing a fun tea party featuring a cake decorating workshop and a strawberry tiramisu workshop. Guests are encouraged to come dressed up according to theme – elegant, fancy, and floral. Interested? Head over to TGV Cinemas official website KL Heritage Sketch Walk | 19-20 July | GMBB | 10am | Ticketed event KL Heritage Sketch Walk, led by Gladys Simpson, is a unique, leisurely walking tour through Bukit Bintang. The tour blends storytelling and sketching while participants explore hidden lanes, heritage sites, and vintage charms. The tour also includes a gastronomic journey; sampling curated local bites and drinks in old Kuala Lumpur. Remember to get tickets from Entree Pass Zoe Tan x LOOOP: I Don't Feel A Thing At All | 19-20 July | 7pm-10pm | Ticketed event Zoe Tan is releasing her upcoming single 'I Don't Feel A Thing At All' on Friday, 18 July and is celebrating the moment with a two-day takeover of the store, AFTER HOURS, over the weekend. Come enjoy great live music, good food and drinks, and possibly win some sweet gift cards from LOOOP. To register, fill in the Google Form 8 th MIFFest 2025 | 19-27 July | GSC MyTown & Lalaport | Ticketed event The 8 th Malaysia International Film Festival is back with a diverse range of interesting movies from around the globe. There'll also be interactive post-screening Q&A sessions and thrilling activities. Tickets cost RM15 per person and can be bought from GSC's official website Share your thoughts with us via TRP's . Get more stories like this to your inbox by signing up for our newsletter.
