HONOR Malaysia mempersembahkan satu kerjasama istimewa bersama filem aksi tempatan Legasi Bomba The Movie sebagai tanda penghargaan kepada pasukan bomba yang sentiasa berkorban demi keselamatan rakyat. Kolaborasi ini diangkat sebagai simbol pengiktirafan terhadap semangat kental, keberanian dan keikhlasan anggota bomba dalam menjalankan tugas mereka.
Filem ini turut menampilkan kelibat sebuah telefon pintar terbaharu HONOR yang belum dilancarkan secara rasmi di Malaysia. Bukan sekadar kemunculan ringkas, peranti misteri ini menjadi perlambangan kepada ketahanan, kekuatan serta kebolehan untuk mengatasi pelbagai cabaran, seiring dengan jiwa wira sejati yang dimiliki oleh anggota bomba.
Direka untuk berdepan keadaan luar jangka, telefon pintar tersebut memberi gambaran awal tentang hala tuju inovasi HONOR pada masa hadapan. Walaupun maklumat terperinci masih dirahsiakan, kehadirannya di layar perak dijangka mengundang persoalan besar dalam kalangan peminat, termasuk sama ada ia merupakan peranti paling lasak HONOR atau mungkin produk yang bakal merevolusikan pasaran.
Bagi pihak HONOR, kolaborasi ini dilihat sebagai tanda penghormatan kepada wira-wira harian negara. Malah, nama HONOR sendiri membawa nilai keberanian, kejujuran dan keteguhan yang sama dengan komuniti bomba. Dengan memperkenalkan telefon pintar misteri ini melalui Legasi Bomba The Movie, HONOR ingin meraikan pengorbanan anggota bomba sambil memberikan bayangan awal tentang sesuatu yang istimewa bakal tiba.
Jangan ketinggalan untuk menonton Legasi Bomba The Movie dan saksikan sendiri bagaimana peranti baharu HONOR ini menjadi simbol keberanian dan teknologi masa hadapan. Untuk perkembangan terkini mengenai produk terbaru HONOR, layari laman rasmi www.honor.com/my/ atau ikuti HONOR Malaysia di Facebook.
Kumpulan Syarikat Malik Streams terus membuktikan pengaruhnya dalam pelbagai bidang perniagaan di Malaysia. Bermula dengan Malik Streams Corporation Sdn. Bhd. yang beroperasi sejak 2007, syarikat ini berkembang sebagai penyedia barangan isi rumah dan pengedar borong.
Di bawah pimpinan Dato’ Malik, syarikat ini turut menjadi antara pemain utama industri hiburan tanah air dengan reputasi sebagai penghubung Malaysia ke arena hiburan antarabangsa, termasuk Bollywood dan Kollywood. Tidak terhenti di situ, Malik Streams juga melibatkan diri dalam sektor pelaburan hartanah, pertukaran mata wang, industri perhotelan serta aktiviti kebajikan yang berteraskan semangat patriotik.
Dalam beberapa tahun kebelakangan ini, Dato’ Malik mengorak langkah lebih jauh dengan menerokai pasaran emas melalui jenama MS Gold. Kini, jenama tersebut sudah pun mempunyai empat butik eksklusif di Jalan Masjid India Kuala Lumpur, Seremban dan Johor.
Tahun 2025 menjadi lebih bermakna apabila Malik Streams memperoleh hak penuh sebagai pengedar rasmi untuk filem box office Tamil berjudul COOLIE, yang ditayangkan di seluruh negara pada 14 Ogos lalu. Filem arahan Lokesh Kanagaraj dan terbitan Kalanithi Maran ini dibintangi oleh barisan pelakon hebat termasuk Superstar Padma Bhushan Rajinikanth, Nagarjuna, Soubin Shahir, Upendra, Shruti Haasan, Sathyaraj dan Aamir Khan.
Lebih istimewa, COOLIE menandakan perjalanan 50 tahun Superstar Padma Bhushan Rajinikanth dalam industri perfileman. Tidak mengejutkan, filem ini mencatatkan rekod kutipan tayangan hari pertama tertinggi di pawagam Tamil seluruh dunia.
Kepulangan Rajinikanth ke layar perak menerusi Coolie: The Movie sekali lagi membuktikan daya tarikannya sebagai legenda. Sarat dengan karisma, emosi dan aksi yang mendebarkan, filem ini dianggap antara tontonan paling bersejarah buat para peminat Superstar sepanjang kerjayanya.
The 62nd Asia Pacific Film Festival (APFF) was officially introduced today through a press conference at GSC Mid Valley Megamall, signalling the return of one of the region’s most iconic film celebrations.
First held in 1954 by the Federation of Motion Picture Producers in Asia Pacific (FPA), the APFF is a travelling event that has toured various member nations for over sixty years, honouring outstanding achievements in filmmaking while promoting cultural understanding across borders. The 2025 edition is set to run from 29 November to 6 December in Kuala Lumpur, with all film screenings hosted at GSC Cinemas, the festival’s Official Cinema Partner. The event is presented by Lomo Pictures Sdn. Bhd., a Malaysian production house committed to showcasing works that value creative authenticity and amplify regional voices.
At the launch, Organising Chairman Aron Koh expressed that hosting the APFF in Malaysia once again is both a tribute to cinema and a sign of trust in the nation’s creative sector. He described the festival as belonging to everyone who believes in the ability of stories to connect people regardless of boundaries.
FPA Secretary General Pansha shared that returning the festival to Malaysia feels like coming home, highlighting the organisation’s mission to nurture communities and offer a platform for new storytellers. He reaffirmed that cinema remains one of the strongest mediums for building connections and fostering cultural dialogue.
One of the day’s biggest reveals was the announcement of Academy Award winner Peter Pau as Jury President for the Asia Pacific Competition. Hailing from Hong Kong and raised in a family closely linked to the film industry, Pau graduated from the San Francisco Art Institute in 1983 and rose to global prominence for his masterful cinematography, particularly in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, which earned him the Oscar for Best Cinematography. With over forty years of experience and acclaimed works such as The Bride with White Hair, Perhaps Love, and Sword Master, Pau brings a wealth of expertise and international stature to the jury.
The APFF also honoured Malaysian actor Syafiq Kyle with the FPA Asia Pacific Rising Icon Award, recognising his increasing influence and contributions to cinema in the region. Since gaining attention as a finalist in Hero Remaja, Syafiq has established himself as one of the country’s most versatile leading actors, delivering notable performances in Sheriff Narko Integriti, The Experts, and Blood Brothers Bara Naga.
Adding to the excitement, the official key visual for this year’s festival was revealed, crafted by local independent artist and designer Iqbal Hakim Boo. The design embodies APFF’s dedication to promoting the distinct artistic identity and creative spirit of the region.
Jazzy Pictures, in collaboration with Oh’ Yes Co., Ltd and co-produced with Timeless Productions, officially announces its upcoming international co-production, Bluefish 청어, a raw and emotionally charged action drama that explores themes of redemption, human connection, and the quiet strength of compassion. Directed by acclaimed Korean filmmaker Lee Sang Hoon and produced by Joanne Goh, the film features a powerful cast led by Ji Seung Hyun and Cecilia Choi. Cecilia, known for her emotionally nuanced performances, received the Best Actress award from the Hong Kong Film Critics Society in 2020 for her role in Beyond the Dream.
This project marks Jazzy Pictures’ first collaboration with a South Korean production team. Filming will take place in Busan and Yeongdeok, with the film currently in pre-production and scheduled for international release in early 2026. At the heart of the story is Gwang Su, a drifter burdened by a violent past, who is unexpectedly transformed after an encounter with Yeon Jeon, a mute milk delivery girl. Her quiet compassion in the face of his aggression causes him to reflect on his actions and the person he has become. As guilt begins to shift into tenderness, a fragile connection starts to grow between them. However, a misunderstanding causes their paths to diverge. When Gwang Su later learns that Yeon Jeon is in danger, he must choose whether to walk away or to take a stand. What follows is a powerful journey of sacrifice, redemption, and the gentle but unwavering force of human kindness.
Slated to begin filming in October 2025, Bluefish 청어 reflects Jazzy Pictures’ ongoing dedication to bold storytelling and meaningful regional collaboration. The film also fulfills a long-envisioned goal for the producers: a significant co-production between South Korea and Hong Kong that demonstrates the strength of cross-border storytelling in Asia. During the official announcement, both the director and producer discussed the challenge of casting Yeon Jeon, a character requiring a unique blend of emotional depth and silent strength. After a thorough search, Cecilia Choi was selected for her quiet resilience and authenticity, which made her the ideal choice for the role.
More than just an action drama, Bluefish 청어 is a deeply human story about individuals searching for light in the darkest corners of their lives. The filmmakers hope that this story will resonate with audiences across Asia and inspire conversations about the lives and capabilities of people with disabilities. The message is clear: people with disabilities are not defined by their limitations but by their strength, independence, and ability to live full, meaningful lives. Ji Seung Hyun expressed his enthusiasm for taking on this emotionally rich role and looks forward to working alongside Cecilia Choi in bringing the story to life.
With its emotional complexity and gripping action, Bluefish 청어 introduces a fresh cinematic voice that explores the transformative power of empathy and connection. The film originated from director Lee Sang Hoon’s personal interest in how society perceives people with disabilities. He hopes to challenge the discomfort and pity often associated with disability by presenting it as an everyday reality rather than a symbol of tragedy. His goal is to emphasize that people with disabilities live lives filled with the same challenges, emotions, and aspirations as anyone else.
At its core, Bluefish 청어 is a life-affirming story about two very different individuals, one weighed down by regret and the other living joyfully despite adversity, whose lives are forever changed by their meeting. It is a heartfelt portrayal of healing, connection, and discovering unexpected meaning in life.
The ASEAN Film & TV Summit 2025 officially commenced with an Opening Ceremony held during the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest), officiated by the Ministry of Communications and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS). The event was followed by a series of panel discussions under the ASEAN Film & TV Summit and ASEAN On Screen, highlighting the richness of Southeast Asian storytelling while promoting regional collaboration and cross-cultural dialogue.
FINAS, with the support of the Ministry of Communications, proudly spearheaded the ASEAN Film & TV Summit 2025. Held in conjunction with MIFFest, this landmark initiative reflects Malaysia’s leadership in championing Southeast Asian creative collaboration and strengthening the region’s cultural economy. Through dialogue, exchange, and celebration, it aims to build meaningful connections within the ASEAN creative industries.
This year, the ASEAN Film & TV Summit and its flagship programme, ASEAN On Screen, took centre stage at MIFFest. Their debut aligns with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship in 2025, which also marks the 10th anniversary of the ASEAN Community. This initiative underscores Malaysia’s commitment to advancing the region’s creative industries and fostering unity through shared cultural platforms.
ASEAN On Screen is a dedicated programme that celebrates the richness and diversity of Southeast Asian cinema. Supported by the Ministry of Communications and presented in collaboration with FINAS, it plays a central role within the ASEAN Film & TV Summit. The programme places Southeast Asian narratives at the forefront of MIFFest, fostering collaboration across borders, encouraging co-productions, and promoting purposeful storytelling. It is designed to strengthen ASEAN cohesion through policy dialogue and cultural exchange, promote regional talents and content globally, encourage industry partnerships and knowledge sharing, and celebrate unique narratives that deserve international recognition.
The summit launched with a welcome speech from MIFFest President Joanne Goh, followed by the first panel session titled “Beyond Borders: Funding Pathways and Development Strategies by ASEAN Film Agencies.” The panel featured representatives from Cambodia, Indonesia, and Malaysia, including the CEO of FINAS, and was moderated by MIFFest advisor Dato’ Kamil Othman. The session explored how regional film agencies can enhance cross-border collaboration, and was followed by a lively Q&A session.
The Opening Ceremony of the ASEAN Film & TV Summit officially began with the arrival of Deputy Minister of Communications, YB Teo Nie Ching. Attendees stood for the Malaysian national anthem, Negaraku, followed by the ASEAN theme song, “Our Land, Our Home.” A welcome speech was delivered by Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, CEO of FINAS, followed by the officiating speech by Deputy Minister YB Teo Nie Ching, who launched the ASEAN Film & TV Summit 2025. In her remarks, YB Teo emphasized Malaysia’s commitment to inclusivity and sustainability under its ASEAN Chairmanship, aiming to build a region that empowers diverse voices and fosters shared growth.
The summit continued with a series of insightful panel discussions, drawing filmmakers, producers, and creative leaders from across the region. Among the highlights was the session “From Local to Global,” which explored immersive technologies and the future of the ASEAN creative ecosystem. Another session, “Cinematic Frontiers: Innovation, Infrastructure and Collaboration in ASEAN Film,” discussed strategies for taking local stories to international audiences. “Cinema in Flux: Finding the Right Story” featured filmmakers from Korea, Indonesia, and Hong Kong sharing their experiences in maintaining artistic identity in an evolving media landscape.
Notable speakers included Lee Dong-Ha, producer of the South Korean hit Train to Busan; Lee Sang-Hoon, director of Family Secrets, which screened at MIFFest ahead of its Korean release; and Tran Thi Bich Ngoc, the Vietnamese producer behind The Third Wife and Glorious Ashes. Each session concluded with an interactive Q&A segment, and the day ended with a commemorative group photo.
The day’s events concluded with the ASEAN Film & TV Summit and ASEAN On Screen Welcome Cocktail Reception, an elegant gathering led by the MIFFest team. The reception brought together regional creatives, diplomats, and industry leaders for an evening of celebration and connection. In her remarks, MIFFest President Joanne Goh expressed pride in presenting ASEAN On Screen as a central part of the summit, in conjunction with Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship. She emphasised the programme’s role in celebrating Southeast Asian cinema while encouraging dialogue around identity, collaboration, and the region’s shared future.
As the 8th MIFFest continues throughout the week, the ASEAN Film & TV Summit and ASEAN On Screen stand as powerful platforms for uniting regional storytellers, advancing the creative economy, and reaffirming Malaysia’s position as a key driver of Southeast Asian cinema on the global stage. These initiatives reflect FINAS’s ongoing commitment to cultural diplomacy, policy innovation, and regional partnerships, and further strengthen Malaysia’s role as a strategic convenor and enabler within the ASEAN creative industry.
The 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) concluded with a star-studded Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA) ceremony at ZEPP Kuala Lumpur, celebrating cinematic excellence from around the world. This year’s prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award was presented to legendary Hong Kong actor Ti Lung in recognition of his decades-long contribution to Asian cinema. Known for his iconic roles in both classic martial arts and dramatic films, Ti Lung’s enduring influence continues to inspire generations of filmmakers and audiences.
The Best Film award went to All That’s Left of You, directed by Cherien Dabis. The film follows a Palestinian couple forced to confront a life-altering decision amid the chaos of displacement and uncertainty. Through quiet strength and intimate moments, the story finds beauty and resilience in the face of hardship. Dabis also received the Best Screenplay award for the same film, praised for its nuanced narrative and emotional depth. The screenplay stands out for its ability to blend political context with personal storytelling, earning her the Heart of Cinema Award.
A major highlight of the evening was the presentation of the New Hope Award by Dato’ Hans Isaac, Chairman of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS). The award was given to Red Path, directed by Tunisian filmmaker Lotfi Achour. Known for his theatrical and cinematic innovation, Achour explores themes of memory and trauma with poetic sensitivity. He was also honoured with the Best Director award for the same film. Red Path tells the story of a man reckoning with his past and showcases Achour’s ability to blend realism with powerful visual and emotional symbolism.
The Infinite Lens Award for Best Cinematography was awarded to Isabelle Stachtchenko for her work on Universal Language. Her breathtaking visuals transcend borders, conveying shared human emotions with clarity and elegance.
In the acting categories, Mahmood Bakri Chatila won Best Actor for his role in To A Land Unknown, delivering a compelling performance as a man displaced by conflict. His portrayal was marked by quiet intensity and emotional depth. Han HaoLin received the Best Supporting Actor award for his role in My Friend AnDelia, a Chinese coming-of-age story. His touching depiction of youthful innocence and vulnerability brought warmth and authenticity to the film.
As it celebrates stories that cross cultures and continents, the 8th Malaysia Golden Global Awards once again highlights cinema as a powerful and universal form of expression.
Fenomena Blood Brothers terus mencuri perhatian dan kekal relevan dalam kalangan peminat hiburan tempatan. Selepas mencetuskan impak di layar perak, naskhah yang sarat dengan elemen aksi dan emosi ini kini melangkah ke dunia anugerah apabila para pelakonnya berjaya mengungguli senarai Top 10 kategori Selebriti Maskulin Terhangat di Anugerah Melodi Terhangat 2025 (AMT2025). Kemunculan Sharnaaz Ahmad, Syafiq Kyle dan Zamarul Hisham dalam senarai tersebut membuktikan bahawa pengaruh filem ini masih kuat dan terus membara sepanjang tahun.
Jika sebelum ini mereka berentap dalam babak dramatik di skrin, kini ketiga-tiga pelakon tersebut bersaing dari segi populariti di carta undian. Dalam Blood Brothers, Sharnaaz dan Syafiq memainkan peranan sebagai pengawal peribadi setia yang bernaung di bawah organisasi gelap, manakala Zamarul pula membawa watak pegawai polis yang lantang menentang mereka. Kali ini, persaingan antara mereka berlaku dalam dunia nyata, namun tetap sengit apabila masing-masing merebut gelaran Selebriti Maskulin Terhangat AMT2025.
Sharnaaz Ahmad yang dikenali sebagai ‘Mamu’ dalam kalangan peminat terus dikenang sebagai pelakon yang konsisten membawakan watak-watak berat. Pembawaan karakternya yang tegas dan berjiwa menjadikannya antara pelakon lelaki yang dihormati. Dengan karisma yang tersendiri dan gaya lakonan yang jujur, tidak hairan jika ramai menjangkakan beliau sebagai pilihan utama untuk anugerah kali ini.
Nama Syafiq Kyle pula tidak asing lagi dalam arena seni lakon tanah air. Mempunyai bakat yang versatil, Syafiq sering tampil dengan peranan pelbagai bentuk, dari yang romantik hingga ke watak yang lebih mencabar secara emosi. Tahun ini, menerusi penampilannya dalam Blood Brothers, Syafiq membuktikan kematangan dalam persembahan dan lakonannya, sekaligus membuka peluang untuk kembali menguasai pentas anugerah setelah sekian lama menyepi.
Sementara itu, Zamarul Hisham yang memiliki lebih dua dekad pengalaman dalam industri kembali menunjukkan taringnya menerusi dua watak berbeza. Pertama sebagai Ayah Abdul dalam Langit ke Tujuh yang meninggalkan kesan mendalam dan kemudian sebagai DSP Adlin dalam Blood Brothers yang membuktikan dirinya masih mampu bersaing dengan barisan pelakon generasi baru. Aura tenang namun penuh kuasa menjadikan Zamarul seorang calon yang wajar diberi perhatian tahun ini.
Ketiga-tiga mereka akan bersaing bersama barisan selebriti popular lain seperti Fattah Amin, Remy Ishak, Dato’ Adi Putra, Datuk Rosyam Noor dan Faizal Hussein. Persaingan ini dijangka sengit dan penuh kejutan. Siapakah yang akan dinobatkan sebagai Selebriti Maskulin Terhangat AMT2025? Segalanya akan terjawab pada malam penuh gemilang 3 Ogos nanti.
Peminat yang ingin mengundi boleh melayari laman rasmi www.tonton.com.my/anugerahmeloditerhangat atau memuat turun aplikasi Tonton di telefon pintar. Dengan pendaftaran akaun dan langganan TontonUP, akses undian akan terbuka sepenuhnya. Langganan selama satu bulan melayakkan anda menghantar 500 undian, manakala langganan selama tiga bulan memberi akses kepada 2500 undian.
Untuk maklumat lanjut mengenai senarai selebriti yang terlibat, aktiviti lokasi dan pelbagai kejutan menarik, ikuti perkembangan terkini di media sosial rasmi @TV3Malaysia dan @MelodiTV3.
The 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) officially opened with a dazzling celebration at MyTOWN KL, setting the stage for nine days filled with cinematic brilliance, creativity, and cultural exchange. The event was a blend of glamour, emotional tributes, and compelling storytelling, marking MIFFest’s continued growth as one of Southeast Asia’s leading international film festivals.
The evening kicked off with a vibrant red carpet event, welcoming filmmakers, jury members, and celebrities such as Zizan Razak, Fabian Loo, Rachel Tan, and Sangeeta Krishnasamy. Guests were greeted with flashing cameras and the buzzing energy of the MIFFest community, all gathered to witness the beginning of another exciting chapter in the festival’s journey.
On stage, MIFFest ambassadors Bront Palarae, Siti Saleha, and Daiyan Trisha engaged the audience in a warm and reflective conversation. They shared their personal connections to cinema, the meaningful role of MIFFest in the industry, and the unifying power of storytelling. Their exchange highlighted the heart of the festival, connection through film.
Joanne Goh, the Founder and President of MIFFest, welcomed attendees with an inspiring speech. She explained that this year’s theme, “Infinity,” symbolises the boundless possibilities offered by cinema. She reminded the audience that films have the ability to move, challenge, and connect people, especially in a time when unity is more important than ever. Following her address, Joanne presented tokens of appreciation to the MIFFest Preliminary Selection Committee and the Jury Panel for the Semi-Final Stage, honouring their hard work and dedication in curating this year’s film lineup.
The highlight of the night was the screening of Ninavau, the official opening film of the 8th MIFFest. Directed by Bebbra Mailin, this emotionally resonant feature tells the story of a Kadazan woman who returns to Sabah for her sister’s wedding while navigating a deeply personal transformation. The film delicately explores themes of family, cultural identity, and self-acceptance, offering an intimate and heartfelt portrayal of East Malaysian life.
This year marks the return of Ninavau in its full-length feature form, reinforcing MIFFest’s commitment to uplifting underrepresented voices in Malaysian cinema. After the opening ceremony, guests gathered at GSC MyTOWN for the film’s premiere, officially launching MIFFest 2025’s cinematic journey.
MIFFest 2025 also signals deeper collaboration across regional and international platforms. The launch of the ASEAN Film & TV Summit, titled ASEAN On Screen, enhances regional partnerships and spotlights Southeast Asia’s creative diversity. Running concurrently with the 25th European Film Festival Malaysia, MIFFest continues to act as a cultural bridge between the East and West, solidifying its place as a globally-minded festival.
The festival’s excitement stretches well beyond screenings. The opening ceremony was livestreamed on TikTok, offering film fans worldwide a chance to tune in to one of Malaysia’s most anticipated film events. This momentum builds toward the 8th Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA), the festival’s grand finale celebrating cinematic excellence.
This year, MGGA received close to 700 film submissions globally, reflecting MIFFest’s growing international reach. From this vast pool, nine outstanding films were selected to compete, each showcasing remarkable storytelling and creative vision. Audiences can follow the awards via livestreams on TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube, while Unifi TV and ViuTV will offer delayed telecasts for broader regional viewership. With its high-profile guests and competitive nominations, the MGGA is poised to be a memorable evening honouring outstanding talents and the future of filmmaking.
From 19 to 27 July 2025, MIFFest invites cinephiles, storytellers, and curious minds to be part of a unique festival experience. With a refreshed film lineup, immersive events, open-air screenings, marketplace showcases, and global forums, this year’s MIFFest promises to inform, entertain, and connect communities through the magic of cinema.
The 25th European Film Festival Malaysia (EUFF) officially opened this evening with a graceful celebration of European and Malaysian cinematic collaboration at GSC MyTOWN, Kuala Lumpur. For the first time in its history, EUFF is being held concurrently with the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest), marking a milestone partnership that unites the richness of European storytelling with the expanding global platform of Southeast Asian cinema.
The evening unfolded as a celebration of unity and creativity, beginning with a cocktail reception attended by filmmakers, diplomats, media representatives, and guests from both Europe and Malaysia. The emcee welcomed the crowd and introduced the festival’s expanded vision, highlighting the significant collaboration between EUFF and MIFFest under the shared theme “Infinity”. Guests enjoyed a delightful cheese sampling experience presented by Emborg and refreshing Sunquick juice packets, adding a vibrant European flair to the evening. A captivating opening performance combined Malaysian traditional dance with European classical music, accompanied by artistic visual projections created by local visual artists, perfectly capturing the theme of limitless creativity.
Joanne Goh, President of MIFFest, in her welcoming remarks, shared that the partnership reflects a shared belief in the power of cinema to bridge cultures, encourage dialogue, and celebrate the depth of global storytelling. She highlighted that the festival features films from 18 European countries, with several of these titles also participating in the MIFFest competition.
H.E. Rafael Daerr, Ambassador of the European Union to Malaysia, delivered the official opening address, reaffirming the EU’s dedication to cultural diplomacy and mutual understanding. He remarked on the festival’s evolution since its inception in 1999, stating that EUFF has become one of the most significant international film festivals in Malaysia. He expressed pride in the trust and unity that made this joint celebration possible.
Guests were also treated to a special preview of trailers from this year’s EUFF lineup, which presents a diverse selection of European films across various genres, languages, and perspectives. The evening included a group photocall featuring key representatives from both MIFFest and EUFF, capturing a symbolic moment of cross-cultural collaboration and unity.
The highlight of the night was the Malaysian premiere of Year of the Widow, directed by renowned Czech filmmaker Veronika Lišková. Co-produced by Slovakia and Croatia, the film was selected as the opening title for its emotionally powerful and timely narrative.
The story follows Petra, a woman in her early forties, whose life is suddenly overturned by the unexpected death of her husband. As Petra and her teenage daughter Dominika confront their grief, they also navigate the harsh realities of mortgages, debts, and bureaucratic obstacles. With quiet resilience, Petra begins to rebuild her life, facing both emotional and practical challenges head-on.
This film marks Veronika Lišková’s debut narrative feature, following her success in the documentary genre with works like Daniel’s World and The Visitors, which were previously screened at major festivals such as Berlinale and Locarno.
Running from 20 to 27 July 2025, the 25th European Film Festival Malaysia, held alongside MIFFest, offers audiences in Malaysia a unique opportunity to discover new voices in European cinema, engage in cross-cultural conversations, and experience film as a powerful medium of global connection.
The 8th edition of the Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) has officially announced its screening schedule, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in a week-long celebration of cinema from around the world. This year’s screenings will take place at GSC MyTOWN KL, which features both indoor and open-air showings, as well as selected screenings at GSC Lalaport BBCC. A total of 65 films from 48 countries will be showcased.
Alongside its diverse film line-up, MIFFest continues to champion meaningful conversations through a series of masterclasses and forums designed to inspire filmmakers and audiences alike. Among the key highlights is a masterclass led by Asif Kapadia, acclaimed British filmmaker and Jury President of the 8th MIFFest. Titled The Unscripted Narrative of Truth, the session explores Kapadia’s signature approach to documentary storytelling through the use of archival material and emotive narratives, as seen in his award-winning films Amy, Senna, and Diego Maradona.
Another major session, The Director’s Script, will be conducted by German-South African filmmaker Pia Marais. Known for her introspective and character-driven stories, Marais will also premiere her latest feature, Transamazonia, which has been selected as the festival’s closing film.
In a special tribute to legendary actor Ti Lung, MIFFest presents The Hero’s Code, a dedicated masterclass honouring his lifetime contribution to cinema. Audiences will have the chance to revisit two of his iconic roles in A Better Tomorrow and The Kid from the Big Apple, followed by live Q&A sessions with the screen legend himself.
The festival will also host a cross-cultural forum titled From Vision to Screen, offering a unique dialogue between leading voices in Asian cinema. Participating in the discussion are Indonesian actor Reza Rahadian, Hong Kong actress Jennifer Yu, and Indian filmmaker Rima Das. This session aims to highlight the diverse creative journeys and collaborative spirit within the regional film industry.
As MIFFest moves toward its finale, all eyes turn to the Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA), scheduled for 26 July at Zepp KL. The awards night will bring together a glittering line-up of presenters, including Malaysian comedian and actor Zizan Razak, actress Lim Min Chen, Train to Busan producer Lee Dong-Ha, South Korean actor-director Lee Sang Hoon, Vietnamese actress Truong Ngoc Anh, South Korean actor Ji Seung Hyun, Taiwanese actor-musician Jasper Liu Yi-Hao, and Chinese actor-singer Dylan Xiong Ziqi. The event will be streamed live via MIFFest’s official TikTok, YouTube, and Facebook channels, connecting audiences from around the world.
With a powerful mix of storytelling, industry dialogue, and star-studded appearances, the 8th MIFFest stands as a dynamic celebration of cinema without borders.
