31-05-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
Alif Zafran wins KJH cosplay contest with homemade Satria suit
PIC BY NSTP/RAIHANA MANSOR
KUALA LUMPUR: Eleven-year-old Alif Zafran Zairif stole the spotlight at the Ejen Ali cosplay competition during Karnival Jom Heboh at KL Base today, wearing a striking homemade replica of the animated hero's Satria suit.
The Satria suit, short for System Advance Tactical Raid Intelligence Armor, is a signature upgrade from the animated series, characterised by its high-tech design, glowing blue LED lights, visor helmet, and reinforced combat-ready body plating.
Alif's father, Zairif Affizal, 38, was the creative force behind the costume, completing the project in just two weeks after learning about the competition.
"I only found out about the Ejen Ali cosplay contest two weeks ago, so I worked on it day and night," said Zairif, who used images and videos from Facebook and TikTok for reference.
"This was my second time making a costume, and I wanted to go all out for my son."
Rather than ordering a custom made suit which can cost up to RM1,000, Zairif built the ensemble from scratch himself for under RM300, using mainly EVA foam and recycled materials.
He said the most challenging part was crafting the helmet.
"To get it right, you really need skill. Without the proper technique, it ends up looking odd.
"It took some trial and error to get the shape, proportions and finish just right."
Alif took home RM500 and some goodies, followed by the runner-up and third place both cosplaying as Ejen Alicia winning RM400 and RM300.
Judging the competition was Ejen Rizwan voice actor Azman Zulkiply, who praised the high level of creativity shown by all participants, especially the support shown by parents.
"If I could, I'd make everyone the winner.
"Every contestant had their own unique effort, and you could see how happy the kids were on stage," he told reporters.
He admitted it was a tough decision but ultimately named Alif as his personal favourite.
"I really liked Alicia, the last contestant with the action scene, very cool with the cut-outs and all.
"But if I had to choose one, I'd go with the Satria suit. The glowing blue eyes and lights were next-level. You could see the effort."
Azman also praised the Ejen Ali franchise for instilling positive values in children.
"The series promotes friendship, loyalty and other strong values.
"It's wonderful to see parents supporting their kids through local content like this.
"It shows how much fun and pride there is in celebrating something made in Malaysia."
The day's activities kicked off at 9am with Zumba with Ejen Ali, followed by a colouring contest at the mini stage at Studio Tonton Drama Sangat and the cosplay competition at 11am.
Yesterday, Fans of Ejen Ali: The Movie 2 flocked to a special meet-and-greet session at Karnival Jom Heboh 2025 to catch a glimpse of the voice actors and mascots of the popular animation.
Shafiq Isa and Noorhayati Maslini Omar, who voice Ejen Bakar and Ejen Alicia, charmed the crowd with an interactive session and prize giveaways.
