Latest news with #MencariRamlee
New Straits Times
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Mimifly dedicates 'Sahabat' to 'loving big brother' Jojo
KUALA LUMPUR: Singer Mimifly, whose real name is Mimi Norhisham, has released a heartfelt tribute to her "loving big brother, sifu, and soul mate," Jojo Hasan Baias, who passed away from a heart ailment on Jan 26. Titled Sahabat, Mimi's heartfelt tribute to Jojo premiered as a music video at 11.11am today on her official YouTube channel. Sahabat, co-composed by Mimi and Bo Curley with lyrics by Mimi, serves as a deeply personal farewell to her dear friend and fellow One Nation Emcees member. In a statement released today, Mimi shared: "Our friendship went beyond music — it was built on trust, loyalty, and shared dreams. Sahabat captures that bond in both melody and words, and I've poured all my emotions into the lyrics as a message of gratitude, remembrance, and love." The music video brings these emotions to life through a retro-inspired visual concept, thoughtfully crafted with Mimi's own creative input. "The nostalgic feel, vintage styling, and expressive cinematography were carefully planned to reflect the soul of the song," she explained. Mimi has once again collaborated with Konda Kondi Studio, a production team that she feels shares a "similar wavelength, creative synergy, and commitment to storytelling with heart." Sahabat has also been chosen as the official end-credit song for the film Mencari Ramlee, which premieres on June 19. "I hope that this music video will resonate with fans and new audiences alike — serving as both a tribute to a beloved friend and a reminder of how music preserves the people and memories we carry in our hearts." Mimi will also donate proceeds from the song to Jojo's widow, Siti Rohayu Saharudin, whom she regards as family. "Thank you, Jojo, for the laughter, the stages we shared, and the joy you brought to my life from the beginning," Mimi expressed. "One Nation Emcees was not just a group; we were family."
New Straits Times
22-04-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Money, Covid-19 delayed P. Ramlee-inspired film
AFTER navigating several hurdles, "Mencari Ramlee", a film inspired by the life and legacy of cinematic icon Tan Sri P. Ramlee, will hit cinemas on June 19. Director Megat Sharizal said the film, set in the 1970s and exploring the aftermath of P. Ramlee's death, was delayed for two years, mainly due to budget constraints. He and his production team decided to secure sufficient funding before completing the film. "As independent filmmakers, financial resources are always a challenge, even though we received RM1 million from the Digital Content Fund under Finas." Megat said this at a recent press conference and launch event for the film. "We believe that the story in 'Mencari Ramlee' remains compelling and relevant, despite the two-year wait." He said the film's screening at the 2025 Rotterdam International Film Festival generated interest from potential collaborators. "My goal is to avoid filming without adequate funding, as I don't want the project to stall. "Following the interest from various parties, I felt confident enough to proceed with the Compulsory Screening Scheme and other steps." He added that funding wasn't the only challenge — the Covid-19 pandemic also delayed the film's release after its completion in 2023. Regarding the casting, Megat said that actors Tony Eusoff and Datin Sofia Jane were his top choices. "In my mind, Tony was always the perfect Zakaria. I also envisioned Sofia as Zaiton — I've admired her work for a long time." Others in the cast include Mimi Lana, Beto Kusyairy, Amerul Affendi, Bront Palarae, Sharifah Amani, Vanidah Imran, Azhan Rani, and a special appearance by P. Ramlee's granddaughter, Najua. Megat expressed hope that audiences will embrace the film. "My aim is to tell a story, and I sincerely hope the audience will connect with it." He said he took inspiration from Nik Amir Mustapha, director of "Imaginur", whose surprise box office success encouraged him. "Mencari Ramlee" unfolds its narrative starting on May 30, 1973, the day after P. Ramlee's death. The story follows Zakaria (Tony Eusoff), a P. Ramlee impersonator struggling to make ends meet as the icon's popularity wanes.
