‘Kentucky Town’ in Malaysia has officially opened, honouring KFC’s golden jubilee there. Fans and followers will have a unique opportunity to interact with the recognisable brand like never before thanks to this immersive experience.
Located at the Sunway Pyramid blue concourse, Kentucky Town will captivate visitors for seven days of fun, starting from 4th July 2023 untill the 10th July 2023. To kick off the festivities, the first day of Kentucky Town will be an exclusive treat for registered KFC app users. Every day from 10am to 10pm attendees will be transported into a world of wonder, brimming with thrilling attractions, unique dining experiences, exhilarating runway shows, lucky draws and much more.
Since its inception in 1973 on Jalan Tuanku Abdul Rahman, KFC has evolved to a nationwide chain of 770 restaurants across Malaysia. In honour of its fifty-year journey and the enduring relationship it shares with its loyal customers, Kentucky Town is designed around the theme of friendship, offering a range of experiences meant to be shared. Everything from the Friendship Tunnel to the Friendship Tub and the Wedges Dining Experience have been designed to immerse visitors in the spirit of camaraderie.
“KFC is a brand that is woven into the fabric of Malaysia and has been a part of it for five decades. We are very grateful to all our customers over the generations for letting us into their lives which is why we want to celebrate this special anniversary with them”, said Premnath Unnikrishnan, Chief Marketing Officer of KFC Malaysia.
Venturing into Kentucky Town, visitors will have the exclusive opportunity to savour limited time delicacies that have never been available in Malaysia. Mouthwatering delights such as ghost pepper drumettes, Korean cheesy paper wrap, Zinger fire ice cream, and waffle sticks with Kit Kat spread, are just some of the many offerings which will tantalize taste buds and leave a lasting impression.
An integral part of the township’s launch is the unveiling of KFC’s collaboration with Malaysia’s renowned streetwear brand Pestle and Mortar, along with the esteemed comic artist Ujang, to create exclusive merchandise commemorating KFC’s 50th year in Malaysia. Both brands epitomize the Malaysian spirit in their unique ways, resonating with people from all walks of life and generations, much like KFC itself.
Unnikrishnan also shared his excitement about the collaboration, stating, “The distinctive style of Pestle and Mortar combined with the iconic artwork of Ujang results in merchandise that not only reflects current trends but also showcases Malaysian identity. The streetwear collection is not only visually appealing but also comfortable, making it more than just a collectible item.”
“Unforgettable experiences are at the heart of Kentucky Town, with every aspect thoughtfully curated to leave a lasting impression on visitors. KFC aims to create an enduring memory that will entice them to return, time and again, for the exceptional dining experience the brand is known for,” he said.
The launch of Kentucky Town is just the beginning of a series of events lined up to celebrate KFC’s Golden Jubilee in Malaysia. Fans and followers can stay updated on the latest news and developments through KFC Malaysia’s Facebook and Instagram pages, as well as their dedicated website at https://kentuckytown.kfc.com.my/#home
Penyanyi-penggubah lagu serta pemenang anugerah bersuara emas negara, Ernie Zakri, saban kali tampil menghiburkan penggemar muzik tempatan. Terbaharu, beliau hadir meminjamkan suaranya dalam sebuah runut bunyi (OST) filem kisah seram adaptasi daripada ritual sebenar masyarakat kaum Melanau zaman dahulu kala ‘Sumpahan Jerunei’.
‘SIRNA’ adalah sebuah karya masterpiece oleh komposer terkenal tanah air, Sharon Paul, manakala liriknya oleh Slenfadzil dengan sentuhan magis oleh Ernie sendiri.
“Setelah membuat sedikit penyelidikan, cerita Sumpahan Jerunei ini mempunyai tarikannya yang tersendiri kerana berdasarkan daripada sebuah tradisi yang benar-benar berlaku.
Filem Sumpahan Jerunei yang telah siap pada tahun 2019 terpaksa ditunda tayangannya kerana bencana pandemik COVID-19 yang menyerang dunia.
“Lagu SIRNA ini sebenarnya telah disiapkan beberapa tahun yang lalu dan tidak dapat dilancarkan kerana apa yang berlaku pada kita semua.
“Cerita disebalik lagu ini ada kena-mengenai dengan filem Sumpahan Jerunei yang mengangkat tema tradisi pengebumian bangsawan Melanau yang penuh misteri.
“SIRNA adalah sebuah lagu yang menceritakan tentang penderitaan seorang wanita yang merayu-rayu meminta untuk dilepaskan, perasaan marah dan memberontak bercampur-baur, dan akhirnya menjadi SIRNA, yang bermaksud hilang atau lenyap.
Lagu dalam genre balada yang berdurasi selama 3:56 minit ini sememangnya ‘berhantu’ atau lebih tepat lagi, hauntingly beautiful, ditambah pula dengan kemerduan suara Ernie berjaya merealisasikan mood seram filem tersebut. Jiwa wanita yang menderita dan sedih dapat dirasai dalam lagu SIRNA yang penuh dramatik ini.
“Kami mengambil masa sekitar 2 sehingga 3 jam sahaja bagi merakamkan lagu ini kerana sudah terbiasa bekerjasama dengan Sharon Paul. Saya juga turut menulis bait-bait liriknya dan menambah elemen lenggok Melayu asli dalam nyanyian saya.
Sebagai seorang anak seni, Ernie antara artis Malaysia yang sentiasa komited dalam apa jua karya yang dipersembahkannya, jelas beliau, “Sebagai seorang public figure, kadang-kadang kita tidak dapat meluahkan apa yang terbuku di hati sepenuhnya, tetapi melalui muzik dan persembahan di pentas, saya boleh menjadi diri saya yang sebenarnya, maka lahirlah sebuah ekspresi Ernie Zakri di situ.
Famy Ghazali, selaku Ketua Label & Penerbitan Rocketfuel Entertainment megulas, “Sumpahan Jerunei adalah sebuah filem seram yang dijangkakan hit apabila ditayangkan kelak, dengan OST nyanyian Ernie saya yakin dapat menaikkan lagi filem ini kerana pemilihan beliau adalah bertepatan dan kena dengan kedudukannya sebagai seorang penyanyi disegani negara.
“Semoga lagu SIRNA menjadi OST terbaik yang pernah dihasilkan selama ini dan moga pendengar sukakanya.
“Saya berharap agar OST filem Sumpahaan Jerunei, SIRNA dapat diterima ramai, walaupun sedikit ‘berat’ konsepnya, agar semua terhibur dan sukakannya.
Lagu ‘SIRNA’ boleh dimuat turun di iTunes dan dijadikan nada dering panggilan menerusi ke semua syarikat telekomunikasi tempatan dan boleh didengar pada bila-bila masa melalui aplikasi penstriman atas talian utama seperti Joox, KKBox, Spotify, Deezer, Apple Music dan juga YouTube Music.
Manakala MV single ini boleh ditonton secara eksklusif di saluran YouTube Rocketfuel Network.
AEON Fashion Preview (AFP) sekali lagi mencatat rekod terbaru dalam The Malaysia Book of Records baru-baru ini di IOI Mall Putrajaya. Telah berlangsung pada hari Sabtu 24 Jun 2023, acara fesyen tahun ke-3 dan edisi ke-2 ini untuk tahun 2023 itu telah membuat pencapaian yang sangat luar biasa.
Seramai 500 orang peragawan yang terdiri daripada personaliti yang berbeza latar belakang dan usia terbabit dalam satu runway.
Ketua Pegawai Dagangan dan Pemasaran AEON, Low Ngai Yuen berkata pihaknya sentiasa berpegang pada keazaman dan komitmen AEON terhadap pergerakan fesyen yang inklusif.
Dalam AFP ini, kapsul-kapsul fesyen yang pelbagai tema dipersembahkan adalah koleksi utama atau signature ekslusif dibawah AEON seperti SCAR, Puteri, Arcadia, M, ti:zed, innercasual iC, Agenda, Suave, Guys’Vision, +Collection, Scarlet inners, JKids dan Crème.
Terdapat fesyen untuk ibu hamil dalam meraikan keperluan tubuh yang berbeza, baju tidur kanak-kanak dengan cetakan ceria untuk mereka tidur dengan selesa, serta fesyen anime dengan karektor kegemaran.
Pakaian yang merupakan fabrik linen yang lain dari kebiasaan sesuai untuk cuaca panas; fabrik denim atas denim yang sentiasa malar dan versatile; pakaian sukan yang menggabungkan gaya dan fungsi; pakaian kerjaya yang berevolusi; dan pakaian kembara dengan kaitan lebih ringan.
Untuk meningkatkan lagi persepakatan ini ke tahap yang lebih tinggi, AEON menjalinkan Kerjasama dengan Comic Fiesta, sebuah pertubuhan peneraju dengan komuniti terbesar dalam bidang anime dan comic-con dalam negara, bagi Festival Anime AEON untuk kali pertama.
Festival ini menampilkan pelancaran bulanan kemeja-T watak anime bermula daripada Attack on Titan, Demon Slayer, disusuli Naruto and Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure.
Bagi memastikan koleksi fesyen ini selaras dengan usaha AEON dalam memperkasakan Sasaran ke-8 dan ke-15 Pembangunan Petubuhan Bangsa-bangsa Bersatu, pertunjukan ini juga menumpukan terhadap menggalakkan measyarakat yang aman dan inklusif bagi pembangunan mampan, dan membina institusi bertanggungjawab dan inklusif yang efektif di semua peringkat; serta melindungi, memulihara dan menggalakkan penggunaan ekosistem daratan.
vivo, a global leading technology company, announced that it has been named the Official Exclusive Supplier of Mobile Phones for the 19th Asian Games Hangzhou (Below as “Hangzhou Asian Games”) on June 15th, which also marked the 100-day countdown to the Hangzhou Asian Games. vivo’s sub-brand, iQOO, has been selected as the Official Esports Gaming Phones for the esports events during the Games. Mao Genhong, the Deputy Secretary General and Director of the Executive Office of HAGOC (Hangzhou Asian Games Organizing Committee), Xu Jianfeng, Deputy of the International Relations Department of HAGOC, Du Mengfei and Ye Hong, Deputies of the Market Development Department of HAGOC, and Jia Jingdong, the Vice President of Branding at vivo, and other guests attended the signing ceremony.
The 19th Asian Games will be held in Hangzhou, China, from September 23 to October 8, 2023, bringing together 45 participating countries and regions. As the continent’s largest multi-sport event, the Hangzhou Asian Games celebrate unity and camaraderie through sports across Asia.
“We are greatly looking forward to partnering with vivo on the occasion of the 100-day countdown to Hangzhou Asian Games. We believe that together with vivo’s extensive experience in sports event cooperation and its commitment to meeting users’ needs with innovative technology products, we can effectively make strong connections with people and promote this event together,” said Mr. Mao Genhong, during the signing ceremony.
To commemorate the official partnership with Hangzhou Asian Games, Jia Jingdong, Vice President of Branding at vivo, presented two of the company’s latest models to HAGOC. Both models will soon be released in the Chinese domestic market.
iQOO Celebrates the Debut of Esports at Hangzhou Asian Games
The addition of esports as an official competition category in the 19th Asian Games is a significant milestone in both the world of sports and esports. As the Official Esports Gaming Phones for Hangzhou Asian Games, iQOO is poised to elevate the gaming competition to a new level and share the thrill with global audiences.
Since its inception, iQOO has been dedicated to developing smartphones that meet the speed, stability, and precision requirements for esports competitions. Over the years, several iQOO products have undergone rigorous testing by professional players and have been designated as official gaming devices for numerous esports events.
iQOO is dedicated to delivering the ultimate gaming and esports experience, aiming to promote the esports spirit and inspire gaming enthusiasts.
This signing ceremony also showcased popular vivo X series and iQOO products. Throughout the years, vivo has consistently achieved remarkable market performance and solidified its reputation in the high-end smartphone market, offering top-notch products and services to over 500 million users across more than 60 countries and regions worldwide. As a sub-brand of vivo, iQOO will also persist in delivering products with outstanding performance and the ultimate user experience.
“Smart” Asian Games Empowered with Exceptional Products “The 19th Asian Games showcases the cultural and sporting charm of Hangzhou to Asia and the whole world,” said Mr. Jia Jingdong. “As the Games’ Official Exclusive Supplier of Mobile Phones and Official Esports Gaming Phones, vivo and iQOO will bring professional imaging technology and ultimate esports experience, helping promote the unity of sports and celebrating this grand occasion.”
As a leading global technology brand, vivo has always been driven by its vision of creating “technology for a better world”. Its partnership with the Hangzhou Asian Games showcases how the power of technology elevates the sporting experience to new heights.
Over the years, vivo has also collaborated with other prestigious sporting events such as the Sudirman Cup, NBA, FIFA World Cup TM, and the UEFA EURO™, gaining further recognition from a growing global audience.
In partnership with ZEISS, the flagship vivo X series brings users top-of-the-line professional imaging experiences, empowering users to capture all the breathtaking sporting moments during the highly anticipated Hangzhou Asian Games. vivo X Fold2 and X Flip feature self-developed ultra-durable and ultra-light aerospace-grade hinges and ZEISS Imaging with Free-Stop Shooting Experience. The upcoming vivo X90s, set to debut in the Chinese domestic market, will boast exceptional Zero-Shutter-Lag Motion Snapshot capabilities, ideal for photographing action-packed sporting events.
As the Official Exclusive Supplier of Mobile Phones for Hangzhou Asian Games, vivo will also record and share the event’s most exciting moments with users worldwide through its cutting-edge professional imaging technology, bringing the joy of sports to everyone on and off the pitch.
For more information about iQOO, please follow iQOO Malaysia Facebook Page for more first-hand updates.
Participants at Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City expressed great confidence in the Vietnamese automotive industry as many begin to lay down foundations for the upcoming technology-driven era. The trade fair took place from 23 to 25 June 2023 at the Saigon Exhibition and Convention Center. Feedback from those seeking business networking, investment and training also enjoyed the added element of entertainment that marked the fifth edition. Organisers vow to continue various forms of community outreach to build momentum in the market and tap into local business culture.
Key figures from Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City 2023:
Visitors: 13,148 from 37 countries and regions
Exhibitors: 461 from 20 countries and regions
Scale: 15,740 sqm
Ms Fiona Chiew, General Manager of Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, remarked: “I am delighted to see an increase in participation amongst local and overseas exhibitors and visitors. It shows that players are recognising opportunities in the automotive supply chain and are using our platform as a gateway for trade and exchange. The engagement from the local players in our fringe programme was also very encouraging; it demonstrates an eagerness to advance the local automotive industry.”
Once again, the trade fair offered an ideal occasion for domestic and overseas automotive markets to come together. Buyers visited from 37 countries and regions, including Cambodia, China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, the US, and Vietnam, to name a few.
Recognising the show’s global influence and importance to the local market, Mr Nguyen Minh Vu, Service Manager, OBD Vietnam, said: “The scale of Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City has definitely grown in recent years. We decided to join again as we continue to see results each time we exhibit. This time we have met buyers from China, India, and Malaysia. Therefore, the show helps to raise our company’s profile beyond Vietnam to other regions around the world.”
Visiting the show from South Korea, Mr Bryan Jon, President of DACCORD from South Korea, expanded on his reasons for attending. He noted: “Many Korean companies are investing in the country to establish local production bases. For the automotive industry, we know that local car ownership has doubled in the last five years thanks to the younger generation purchasing four-wheelers. It is creating new opportunities, which is why I am here; to get a better picture of the market and find new products for my trading company.” He added, “I am pleased with the connections I have made locally. The international involvement was also more than I expected, and I explored brands from Germany, Indonesia, Japan, Singapore and Malaysia too.”
One Malaysian exhibitor was Schmaco Auto Parts Industries SDN BHD. Managing Director, Mr Edmund Tan, reflected: “Participating allows us to keep up with local market needs and provide appropriate products in the future. For foreign companies like us, the exhibition is a gateway to the market where we can promote high-quality products. So, in addition to local companies, many players from other countries and regions were exhibiting.”
One Malaysian exhibitor was Schmaco Auto Parts Industries SDN BHD. Managing Director, Mr Edmund Tan, reflected: “Participating allows us to keep up with local market needs and provide appropriate products in the future. For foreign companies like us, the exhibition is a gateway to the market where we can promote high-quality products. So, in addition to local companies, many players from other countries and regions were exhibiting.”
Along the same lines, Mr Khach Tham Quan, a local sales representative from Cty TNHH Tan Phai Saigon, said: “The international representation of exhibitors was beneficial for my sourcing. I found the latest equipment and tools at the highest international standards from leading brands like Autel. I will follow up with them as I am in the process of upgrading my workshop to serve customers better.”
This year, the Vietnam Association of Supporting Industries also brought a bigger group of players to the show. Mr Duong Danh Tai, Vice President Head of Linkage and Promotion Department of the Vietnam Association of Supporting Industries, reflected by expressing: “We believe Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City is the right platform for our members to tap into the global supply chain. Its influence can help open up opportunities for exporting car parts and foster more networks with foreign and domestic carmakers and OEMs. Going forward, we plan to invite more members so that they can continue developing a greater understanding of global industrial trends and market movements.”
Spotlighting trends in the market
During the three days, many conversations revolved around the rapidly evolving automotive industry. In particular, electric vehicles, automotive manufacturing, and automation dominated discussions.
Speaking to ZF Aftermarket’s Vice President of the Asia Pacific Division, Mr Teoh Chee How, mentioned: “Sustainability is one of the key trends contributing to electrification. We are watching the EV space closely and already have good learnings from Europe and China. They are ahead of the region in this sense. If I look at Asia Pacific, the growth drivers are China and Southeast Asia. When zooming in closer, Indonesia and Thailand show dynamic results, but the next will be Vietnam. We are leveraging Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City to connect with potential customers as there are many opportunities for our solutions in the passenger car, commercial vehicle and industrial segments.”
In this regard, the EV Zone, Automotive Manufacturing & Automation Zone, Auto Service & Maintenance Zone, and Accessories & Customising Zone were amongst the show floor’s most popular areas. Across these specialised zones, exhibitors presented their latest products, services and technologies in OE to the aftermarket.
Elsewhere, attending the Digitalisation and Electrification Networking Event, Mr Le Thanh Duoc, Engineer at INABA Model VN Co Ltd, pointed out: “The content shared was very relevant as it touched on all the major trends around electrification, technological innovation and industry 4.0. We joined the event because we also must embrace these advancements. Therefore, it was very beneficial that speakers introduced a number of new cutting-edge products, which we may potentially assess in the future.”
Echoing this idea, Marco Forlingieri, Senior Technical Sales, Sustainability Software, Complex Engineering, IBM Technology, South East Asia (ASEAN), shared: “For the country to make it big in the global supply chain, it needs to show the world that Vietnamese engineering means high-quality products, not low cost alternatives. Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City can support this mindset change by making people more aware of the automotive industry and opportunities in the EV ecosystem.”
Going beyond a traditional automotive industry exhibition
Ms Judy Wang, President of Yorkers Exhibition Service Vietnam, noted: “As a rising automotive hub in ASEAN, we feel it is important that overseas companies understand local business customs. Every touchpoint offers valuable insights as Vietnamese people prefer to explore the industry in a more physical way, wanting to see and hold automotive parts and products to then engage in deeper conversations. It is also the reason why we incorporated entertainment. Through expanding the scope of visitors, we hope that consumers can learn more about the automotive industry, while exhibitors can also understand end-user demands in person.”
The broader aim was to build up an awareness of the entire value chain, in hopes of activating the consumers and generate aftermarket sales throughout the year.
From this standpoint, AutoFest@HCMC drew in a wider audience adopting more B2C elements. Visitors were impressed by the unique trade fair experience, which brought together the auto service day, live music and entertainment, as well as the EMMA Vietnam – Car Audio and Modification Competition, drift shows, and car servicing.
“I have participated at four editions of Automechanika Ho Chi Minh City either as an exhibitor or visitor on separate occasions,” explained Mr Nguyen Ha Tuan, Sales Manager of Saigon Invest. “The exhibition is great fun as you can watch interesting performances and learn a lot, as well as see all the latest products from international brands. My favourite part was the Auto Service Day as I got my car inspected by a professional car care team, and witnessed first-hand the latest car maintenance products and services in action.”
In addition, Mr Nguyen Hoang, a student from Shape Education Vietnam, voiced: “I came to the fair as I really wanted to see the Drift & Stunt Show. I am majoring in automotive technology so I always like to join activities about vehicles and special-purpose cars to gain more insights. I also attended the Auto Maintenance Workshop. Therefore, I really appreciate all the professional and exciting aspects of the show. I look forward to coming back in the future!”
The trade fair is co-organised by Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd, Chan Chao International Co Ltd and Yorkers Exhibition Service Vietnam.
The brand’s flagship show, Automechanika Frankfurt, will return to the stage from 10 to 14 September 2024. Meanwhile, other Automechanika events organised by Messe Frankfurt’s Greater China offices include:
Automechanika Shanghai: 29 November to 2 December 2023
The vivo X UCSI Y36 campus workshop, which will take place on July 1, aims to provide students the chance to improve their videography abilities and learn more about the world of content creators. The event will be place at UCSI University’s Block-C C405b room from 3 to 4.30 p.m. The participation in this interesting activity is open to all pupils.
Invited renowned photographer, Najmuddin Muif will share his expertise on shooting unboxing videos, how to develop and grow in this competitive new media era while providing valuable practical tips and his own past experience in the field.
Throughout this workshop, students will be well-equipped with useful tips and knowledge relevant to the field.
Moreover, students who attended the event were rewarded with 8 ELE points, acknowledging their active participation and also a special handing-in ceremony conducted by vivo officials.
Additionally, don’t miss out the chance to join the UCSI x vivo Y36 5G Campus Unboxing Competition! The top three winners for the contest will receive attractive prizes and ELE points as below:
First prize: Joyoung VF510 Air Fryer + 40 ELE points
Second prize: Joyoung Nutrition Kettle + 32 ELE points
Third prize: Wireless Stereo Headset + 24 ELE points
Limited spots are available, so do not hesitate now and register quickly to secure their spot.
For more information, stay tuned to vivo Malaysia’s official Facebook Page.
At the 2023 Asia Mobile Awards held during MWC Shanghai, the OPPO Find N2 was crowned Best Smartphone in Asia today. The Find N2, which won the highly coveted prize because to its exceptional performance and cutting-edge user experience, stood out from a stiff shortlist.
GSMA’s Asia Mobile Awards is the region’s most prestigious accolade for the connectivity industry. The Best Smartphone in Asia Award is judged by prominent industry experts from GSMA based on criteria that include performance, innovation, and industry leadership. This year’s award not only recognizes the individual strength of OPPO Find N2 but also shows OPPO’s wider recognition and leadership in the industry.
OPPO Find N2 wins Best Smartphone award at the 2023 Asia Mobile Awards
OPPO Find N2 is OPPO’s second-generation flagship foldable phone. Featuring an ultra-light and durable Flexion Hinge and the industry’s first aerospace-grade carbon fiber screen support frame, the Find N2 offers an incredibly light foldable experience without sacrificing durability and reliability. The device adopts the same golden folding ratio as the original Find N and uses E6 120Hz displays for both its internal and external screens. Combined with its excellent charging and battery life, Hasselblad Camera for Mobile, and FlexForm Mode, OPPO Find N2 is a lightweight, intuitive foldable that is perfectly designed for everyday use.
Since its release at the end of 2022, OPPO Find N2 has captured the imagination of users worldwide with its innovative experiences, ushering in a new era for foldable phones. According to data from IDC, in Q1 2023, the OPPO Find N2 series ranked first in China’s foldable phone market with a market share of 35.0%, helping OPPO to take the top spot in terms of overall phone shipments during the same period.
OPPO Find N2
OPPO is promoting innovation-driven industry development and empowering users worldwide with smart life experiences through an extensive product ecosystem. In recent years, these efforts have been increasingly recognized at the international level. In 2023, OPPO was named one of the 10 Most Innovative Asia-Pacific Companies by Fast Company and received a total of 15 awards from the iF International Forum Design. OPPO has also won numerous awards for its products, including the 2023 Edison Best New Product Awards and the 2023 SEAL Sustainable Product Award for the OPPO Air Glass and OPPO Battery Health Engine respectively, reflecting a growing recognition of OPPO’s cutting-edge technology and contributions to sustainability.
Guided by its mission of “Technology for Mankind, Kindness for the World”, OPPO will continue to use innovation to bring cutting-edge technology experiences to users worldwide.
Menghidupkan semula tradisi, adat atau kepercayaan yang pernah wujud dalam sejarah peradaban manusia ke skrin layar mungkin tidak semudah yang digambarkan.
Namun dengan pengetahuan dan kajian yang dijalankan, ‘suasana’ tersebut dapat dikembalikan meski ia dihasilkan dalam bentuk fiksyen.
Itulah yang bakal disaksikan oleh penonton apabila sebuah filem berjudul Headhunter edaran MyContent Distribution yang bakal menemui para penonton menerusi platform Prime Video.
Headhunter dalam bahasa Melayu bermaksud pemburu kepala. Ia bukan sebuah keganasan semata-mata namun adat tradisi daripada suku kaum Iban di Sarawak sejak berabad lamanya.
Ia juga merupakanlambang kepahlawanan apabila Headhunters membawa pulang kepala selepas misi serangan yang dikenali sebagai Ngayau.
Mengambil latar abad ke-18, Headhunter yang ditulis, diarahkan dan diterbitkan sendiri oleh Badd Badrul akan menyaksikan kombinasi di antara fakta tentang adat tradisi dan fiksyen yang dibentuk menjadi hiburan sekaligus pengetahuan baharu buat generasi masa kini.
Badd Badrul juga menyifatkan Headhunter sebagai naskhah bersifat mendidik dan berkongsi ilmu tentang adat, budaya atau tradisi yang cukup kaya di Malaysia amnya dan di Borneo khususnya.
“Pahlawan Iban yang sejati bukan sahaja yang memenggal kepala tetapi yang sanggup kepalanya dipenggal, ini merupakan ‘tagline’ untuk filem ini”, kata Badd Badrul yang menjadi tunggak utama filem Headhunter sebagai Penerbit, Pengarah dan Penulis Skrip.
“Naskhah ini bukan hanya bergantung kepada latar belakang tradisi Headhunter atau pemburu kepala itu semata-mata. Sebaliknya ia dipenuhi dengan pengembaraan, aksi, suspen dan pembalasan yang diselitkan bersama kisah asmara dan setiakawan yang sangat tinggi.
“Saya menghasilkan naskhah ini dalam bentuk fiksyen tetapi apa yang ingin disampaikan di sebalik Headhunter adalah tentang sejarah atau adat tradisi yang telah sebatidalam ‘dunia’ masyarakat Iban.
“Besar harapan saya pengisian di dalam Headhunter dapat ditonton sekaligus dikenali dan difahami oleh generasi masa kini tentang budaya serta adat tradisi kaum terdahulu sebelum kita. Pihak kami juga mendapat kerjasama dari Persatuan Transformasi Dayak (TRADA). Kami berterima kasih kepada Joseph Ninting Janting selaku presiden persatuan, dan jurulatih linguistik mereka iaitu Richard Mathias,” ujar Badd Badrul.
Headhunter yang bakal ditayangkanbermula 29 Jun 2023 di Prime Video ini mengangkat kisah empat sahabat baik yang membesar bersama sejak kecil.
Mereka adalah Anang, Lebor, Untai dan Siah yang melalui pahit manis kehidupan seharian bersama-sama..
Anang bagaimanapun melalui jalan hidup yang kurang menyenangkan. Tragedi menyayat hati terjadi apabila bapa Anang mati dibunuh dengan kepalanya dipancung oleh musuh bernama Sapik. Sejak itu Anang berikrar untuk membalas dendam ataskematian bapanya.
Masa berlalu, mereka beranjak dewasa. Anang dan Lebor telah dipanggil oleh Tuai rumah iaitu ketua rumah panjang bersama remaja-remaja yang lain untuk melakukan ekspedisi Ngayau sebagai salah satu syarat menjadi pahlawan Iban.
Mereka akan bergelar pahlawan Iban selepas mendapatkan kepala lalu diberi gelaran Bujang Berani.
Sapik sebaliknya masih dengan sikap jahat dan telah mengupah lanun untuk menyerang kaum Iban sehingga ramai terkorban.
Sapik juga sempat mengugut untuk membunuh Untai dan pada suatu hari,i Anang telah menemui bungkusan yang rupanya diisi dengan kepala Untai.
Persoalannya, siapa yang membunuh Untai?
Saksikan Headhunter edaran MyContent Distribution yang mula ditayangkan di Prime Video pada 29 Jun 2023. Filem ini mengketengahkan lakonan Anding Indrawani sebagai watak utama, Cha Cha Maembong sebagai heroin manakala Ebi Kornelis sebagai watak antagonis atau musuh utama hero. Ia juga menampilkan lakonan sulung Ahya Rosli dan Zulaika Zahari.
Headhunter telah mendapat Anugerah Khas Juri Festival Filem Malaysia yang ke 31. Manakala Anding Indrawani pula telah memenangi Anugerah Pelakon Harapan FFM 31 melalui filem yang sama.
Perjalanan setiap individu tidak sentiasa manis dan pasti akan melalui pelbagai onak dan duri sebelum mencapai kejayaan yang gemilang. Begitulah mesej yang cuba disampaikan dalam single terbaharu penyanyi hip hop terkenal, Kmy Kmo berjudul 21A yang baru dilancarkan di platform YouTube Kmy Kmo pada 30 Mei lalu.
Lebih mengujakan, single hasil tulisannya itu turut berjaya memasuki tiga playlist di platform digital Spotify iaitu Border Beats, Made in Malaysia dan Pop Terkini! dalam tempoh sehari selepas dilancarkan.
Pencapaian ini tentunya memberi sedikit kelegaan kepada pemilik nama sebenar Lukmanul Hakim apabila single solo yang mengisahkan perjalanan peribadinya mendapat tempat di hati pendengar tanah air.
Bercerita mengenai lagu 21A, Kmy memberitahu lagu yang dihasilkan itu adalah luahan ikhlas dirinya dalam menceritakan kepayahan yang terpaksa dilalui untuk menempa nama dalam pasaran muzik hip hop sebelum ini.
“Sebagai anak jati Kuantan yang begitu meminati muzik hip hop saya akui perjalanan yang saya tempoh sebelum ini adalah satu proses yang panjang dan tidak mudah untuk saya lalui.
“Jika dulu saya perlu yakinkan bakat kecil yang saya miliki ini untuk menambat hati pendengar di Malaysia selain cabaran untuk menembusi pasaran mainstream.
“Walau bagaimanapun segala pengalaman yang saya lalui sebelum ini akan menjadi satu cerita indah yang tidak mampu saya lupakan selain menjadi pengajaran terbaik untuk saya terus bersyukur dengan apa yang saya miliki sekarang ini,”katanya.
Tambah Kmy, sepanjang penulisan lagu ini dia tidak berdepan sebarang kesukaran kerana lagu dan liriknya bersifat santai serta luahan hati peribadinya.
“Tiada tekanan untuk hasilkan lagu ini berbanding lagu-lagu yang pernah saya hasilkan sebelum ini.
“Menerusi lagu ini saya hanya santai-santai saja. Tambah pula, lagu ini menceritakan mengenai luahan hati serta semangat yang ingin saya bawa buat kawan-kawan atau kenalan yang berasa diri mereka kerdil dalam memasuki pasaran muzik hip hop.
“Saya sedar masih ramai bakat-bakat muda yang kurang keyakinan diri untuk memperkenalkan bakat mereka kerana takut dengan anasir negatif yang mereka dengar dalam dunia hiburan.
“Ada yang bimbang jika kehadiran mereka dalam pasaran mainstream akan ditindas, diketawakan, atau dipergunakan sedangkan mereka perlu berani dan yakin dengan sesuatu produk yang ingin ditampilkan,” katanya.
Bagi yang meminati setiap lagu hasil ciptaan Kmy pasti pernah mendengar lagu 21A sekitar tahun 2016 apabila demo yang dihasilkan dimuat naik di YouTube.
Baru-baru ini, lagu Ayuh hasil paduan Kmy Kmo bersama Malique, Aman RA dan Ernie Zakri menjadi bualan peminat muzik hip hop apabila menduduki tangga teratas ‘trending’ di YouTube.
Tampil merakam dengan nafas baharu, Kmy berharap 21A yang diperkenalkan ini dapat memberi lebih kepuasan kepada pendengar.
“Sebenarnya pada 2016, saya pernah rakamkan lagu ini bersama seorang sahabat dikenali Fareed. Kemudian rakaman kedua dibuat dengan versi baharu bersama Luca Sickta sekitar 2022.
“Tujuan saya merakamkan semula lagu ini kerana saya mempunyai perancangan dan stratergi yang berbeza. Saya seorang yang suka mendengar maklum balas jujur dan ikhlas daripada pendengar.
“Ketika saya rakam lagu itu untuk album solo pada tahun 2016, namun masih belum dikeluarkan, saya muat naik kesemua lagu di YouTube.
“Ini kerana, saya ingin melihat maklum balas yang jujur daripada pendengar yang sentiasa menyokong kerjaya saya. Mereka ini semua akan menilai lagu yang paling mereka gemari dan daripada situlah saya tahu kekuatan setiap lagu saya.
“Melihat respons positif daripada peminat untuk lagu 21A ini, saya pun nekad merakam semula lagu ini dengan versi baharu dan lebih tersusun,” katanya yang berharap lagu 21A dapat diterima dengan baik oleh pendengar tanah air.
21A boleh didengarkan di semua platform penstriman digital seperti Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, KKBOX dan YouTube Music sejak 30 Mei yang lalu.
Membina jenamanya sendiri, Sophia Liana menjadi satu-satunya rapper wanita yang telah ditandatangani di bawah Def Jam Malaysia yang kini memaparkan bakatnya melalui lagu terbaharunya yang berjudul NAH.
Tidak dinafikan lagi, nama Sophia bukan lagi asing di persada seni hiburan tanah air. Sophia mula bertapak di dalam muzik industri tempatan sejak 2015 menerusi penampilannya bersama kumpulan De Fam, dan terus mengorak langkah sebaris dengan penyanyi dan rapper sedia ada.
Ternyata percaturannya dengan cubaan bergerak solo pada 2018 selain ingin mencabar diri membuahkan hasil. Semenjak itu, Sophia sudah berkolaborasi dengan beberapa artis tempatan. Antaranya, Dayang Nurfaizah, Hannah Delisha, Budak Ngam, Harith Zazman dan ramai lagi.
Lebih membanggakan juga apabila Sophia mula menggilap bakatnya dalam penciptaan lagu. Malah, sejak lagu pertama Supergirls bersama De Fam, Sophia sudah mula menulis lirik sendiri.
Terbaharu, Sophia, 33, atau nama sebenarnya Sophiatul Liana Mohamed Sobri muncul dengan single berjudul NAH yang juga hasil ciptaan oleh Sophia Liana bersama dengan Navigator, Mambang dan Zizi Kirana.
Menurutnya, lagu NAH itu berkisar mengenai isu yang berlaku dalam di kalangan masyarakat umum.
“Kalau kita tengok sekarang ini ada orang yang lebih gemar menuding jari atau menyalahkan orang lain. Saling menyalahkan antara satu sama adalah sikap yang sering berlaku dan kadangkala seseorang itu tidak melihat kepada kesilapan diri sendiri. Malah, ada juga yang tidak bertanggungjawab terhadap tindakan yang dilakukan. Ini adalah isu yang saya cuba mengadaptasikan menerusi lagu ini.
“Proses penulisan lagu ini berjalan dengan sangat lancar, mungkin disebabkan kami sudah perincikan mengenai kandungan apa yang dikehendaki. Jadi, proses rakamannya juga tidak begitu lama dan senang bagi kami untuk memilih rentak yang bersesuaian dan bagaimana cara untuk membuatkan lagu ini kedengaran lebih menarik. Selain itu, orang disekeliling saya memberikan aura positif yang membuatkan saya berasa sangat selesa di studio. Proses rakaman lagu ini mengambil masa tiga hingga empat sesi.
Mendapat bantuan daripada Zizi Kirana dan Mambang dari segi melodi terutama pada bahagian korus. Saya mengambil masa satu hingga dua minggu sebelum pergi ke studio untuk rakamkan demo dahulu. Saya akan rakamkan demo itu di rumah sebelum pergi ke studio untuk menyelesaikan sesi rakaman sebenar. Dari situ, kami lihat bahagian mana yang lemah untuk ditambah baik terutama dari segi melodi dan lirik,” katanya.
Sophia yang juga pernah muncul menerusi lagu Pedas nyanyian Wany Hasrita berkata, proses rakaman lagu NAH juga sangat menyeronokkan termasuk ketika menjayakan penggambaran video muzik.
“Proses rakaman muzik video pula hanya mengambil masa satu hari disebabkan pengarahnya sudah tahu apa yang ingin dilakukan dan memudahkan segala gerak kerja kami sebagai satu pasukan dan ianya mampu di selesaikan dalam tempoh yang singkat.
Berkongsi lebih lanjut, Sophia mengakui turut berdepan cabaran ketika menghasilkan lagu NAH.
“Untuk siapkan lagu dan muzik video tidak ada cabaran yang begitu berat. Mungkin cabarannya dari segi masa untuk mengumpulkan semua yang terbabit dalam satu masa. Selain itu, mencari ‘cameo’ untuk melakonkan watak yang dimahukan dalam muzik video ini juga ada sedikit cabaran, namun semuanya berjalan lancar dan dapat diselesaikan dengan baik.
“Sementara itu, konsep muzik video diketengahkan adalah mengenai isu semasa. Kami ada cerita yang ingin disampaikan kepada orang ramai. Terdapat empat penari kanak-kanak yang akan mewakili generasi muda. Ada juga ‘cameo’ yang akan terbabit dalam babak isu semasa.
“Isu pertama adalah pergaduhan antara pasangan yang sering menyalahkan antara satu sama lain. Senario kedua pula, memaparkan seorang penunggang agama sedang menggunakan telefon bimbit untuk menonton perkara lucah dan seorang lagi cuba untuk mengambil kesempatan ke atas seorang wanita,” katanya.
Berbekalkan mesej yang cuba disampaikan dalam lagu NAH, Sophia berharap orang ramai dapat menghargai lagu ini dan menyebarkan perkara positif yang terkandung kepada orang ramai atau di mana-mana sahaja platform media sosial.
“Semoga dengan sokongan terhadap lagu ini dapat memberikan impak positif terhadap industri muzik tanah air,” katanya.
Single NAH boleh didengari di semua digital platform seperti Spotify, Apple Music, KKBOX, Deezer dan YouTube Music pada 23Jun 2023, muzik video juga ditayangkan secara eksklusif di saluran YouTube rasmi Def Jam Malaysia.
