Latest news with #Malay
Sinar Daily
an hour ago
- Entertainment
- Sinar Daily
‘Seribu Tahun aims to spark understanding, not promote LGBT culture'
LGBTQ+ themes are rarely portrayed in Malay television dramas, largely due to Malaysia's deep-rooted religious beliefs and cultural sensitivities. But this year, a drama titled Seribu Tahun has stirred debate, reigniting conversations about representation, empathy, and the boundaries of creative storytelling. Since its release, Seribu Tahun has received mixed reactions from viewers. While some praised the show for its bold attempt to humanise difficult issues, others criticised it for allegedly normalising LGBT narratives, sparking heated discussions on social media. At the heart of the debate is actor Nazrief Nazri, who plays Dr Zahar in the series. He clarified that the drama was never about promoting LGBT culture, but about shedding light on the hidden struggles faced by some individuals in society. 'We're not pushing any agenda. The director, Shahrulezad, and the scriptwriter wanted to show that not everyone in the LGBT community has the same story,' he said when contacted recently. 'Some struggle quietly, pray for change, and feel trapped in identities they didn't choose. The message here is not to support their actions, but to guide them with compassion rather than condemnation,' Nazrief added. He further highlighted that the aim is not to promote any particular lifestyle, but to encourage thoughtful conversation. Nazrief added that while the drama begins with controversial elements, its true message becomes clearer towards the end. 'It's not about glorifying or normalising anything,' he said. Nazrief Nazri with his Seribu Tahun co-star, Zarif Ghazzi He stated that the message is about raising awareness of a subject often seen as taboo in society, stressing that without open dialogue, these social issues risk being overlooked, and solutions remain out of reach. He also shared that the overall response to the drama has been overwhelmingly positive, with several viewers expressing that the storyline resonated with their own personal experiences. According to Nazrief, only a small minority, around 2 or 3 per cent, reacted negatively. 'I don't blame them. If this issue is not relatable to them, it's harder to understand. But those who've experienced it first-hand, especially within families, were more accepting,' he added. Nazrief hopes Seribu Tahun will be viewed with an open mind, emphasising that it is a drama for everyone, regardless of background. He urged audiences to focus on understanding the message it conveys. He also expressed his hope that members of the LGBTQ+ community can find meaningful lessons in Dr Zahar's journey. 'In my 13 years of acting, I've always looked for roles that leave an impact,' Nazrief shared. He also shared that after taking a break to focus on raising his child, Seribu Tahun felt like the right project for his return to acting. Set in contemporary Malaysia, Seribu Tahun tells two intertwining stories of love, identity, and emotional resilience. One storyline centres around Syukri and his wife Nur, whose marriage is tested by the arrival of Puteri Imaan Suhana, a seemingly perfect woman determined to win Syukri's affection. Despite Nur's limitations, she is intellectually delayed and unable to conceive due to Turner Syndrome, Syukri's love remains unwavering. The drama explores themes of loyalty, inner strength, and the destructive nature of envy, as Imaan, fuelled by jealousy and unresolved trauma with her mother, attempts to disrupt their marriage. Parallel to this is the emotional and spiritual journey of Dr Zahar, a respected medical professional grappling with his identity, faith, and the stigma surrounding sexuality in a conservative society. The story highlights the isolation, conflict, and quiet suffering faced by individuals navigating these deeply personal issues.
The Star
an hour ago
- Politics
- The Star
Malay unity call falls flat
THEY are big names in the Malay political world and they are urging the Malays and Muslims to come together under one big umbrella. There they were - the one and only Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin and his deputy Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin and PAS deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man. Billed as RM9.73 for the 1st month then RM13.90 thereafters. RM12.33/month RM8.63/month Billed as RM103.60 for the 1st year then RM148 thereafters. Free Trial For new subscribers only Follow us on our official WhatsApp channel for breaking news alerts and key updates!
Straits Times
an hour ago
- Health
- Straits Times
Over 700 Marsiling-Yew Tee residents walk for mental health, amid more initiatives for Malay/Muslims
Senior Minister of State Zaqy Mohamad, Mayor Alex Yam and Ms Hany Soh flagging-off a walk during the Hijrah Walk & Health Fiesta on June 28. ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO Over 700 Marsiling-Yew Tee residents walk for mental health, amid more initiatives for Malay/Muslims SINGAPORE - Residents in Marsiling-Yew Tee, those in particular from the Malay/Muslim community, can look forward to more mental health support in the coming months. Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad said on June 28 that the M³@Marsiling-Yew Tee team has been engaging residents since the start of 2025 with mental health sharing sessions and information about dementia awareness. More than 80 people have been engaged so far, through a partnership with An-Nur Mosque. Speaking to The Straits Times on the sidelines at the annual Hijrah Walk and Health Fiesta event, Mr Zaqy said the initiative is in its early days, but has plans to expand. He said he has gotten feedback, especially from the Malay/Muslim community in Marsiling-Yew Tee, that they cannot find enough support for caregivers of those with mental illnesses or dementia. The June 28 event, held in conjunction with the Islamic New Year, was held at Choa Chu Kang Stadium and attended by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, Mr Zaqy, Ms Hany Soh and Mr Alex Yam. All are MPs for the GRC. The event was organised by the M³@Marsiling-Yew Tee team. M³ is a collaborative effort between three key Malay/Muslim institutions - the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, Mendaki and Mesra. More than 700 residents from Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC came together to show their support for mental wellness through a mass walk. Residents visited interactive booths and activity stations by community partners like the Singapore Cancer Society, Caregivers Alliance, and Health Promotion Board which featured information on mental health support services, wellness resources, and active lifestyle initiatives. Said Mr Zaqy: 'It's important from a community perspective to talk about mental wellness. I think there's always been mental illness around us, but it can be seen as a taboo issue and therefore not much of it has been spoken about.' 'But I think that sharing experiences, resources, and support is one way in which we bring the community together and help bring down the barriers to discussing mental illness.' He added that connecting those in need with help is always challenging. 'For many of them, the reason why they are not well-connected is because they're are busy firefighting at home. Taking care of those struggling with any issue is not easy, so we need to go reach out to them through neighbourhood networks.' He said the M³@Marsiling-Yew Tee team plans to also work with youth in the rest of the year. Among younger people, he said, mental health is less of a taboo topic, thanks to greater exposure in schools and on social media. PM Lawrence Wong (in pink) interacting with participants after their walk during the Hijrah Walk & Health Fiesta. ST PHOTO: GAVIN FOO 'We have to translate that and see how they can be ambassadors to do outreach to the rest of the community, and refer friends and family members who may have issues,' he added. 'I think they are more ready to speak about this, and I hope they can help bring family members who might be older onboard.' Retiree Madam Zulaiha, 63, attended the mass walk on June 28 with her grandson. 'It is not only good exercise and fun to walk with everyone else, but it is for a good cause,' the former canteen cook said. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
The Star
4 hours ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
MPO steps up its efforts to elevate Malay heritage music
Under the baton of conductor Ahmad Muriz, the 'Simfoni Budaya II' performance on July 5 will bring classic Malay songs to life as the MPO presents joget, asli and zapin in rich symphonic form. Photo: The Star/Ong Soon Hin In the heart of Kuala Lumpur, the Malaysian Philharmonic Orchestra (MPO) continues to champion traditional local music as a vital part of the nation's cultural heritage through its culturally-themed programmes at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas, KLCC. MPO conductor Ahmad Muriz Che Rose sees the bigger picture – framing Malaysian folk music as an art form worthy of celebration, on par with classical traditions worldwide, and central to the orchestra's long-term vision. "We want the public to understand that MPO is not solely about Western classical music but is also actively involved in the development of the nation's traditional music,' said Ahmad Muriz in recent Bernama interview. He added the MPO is now more open and plans its annual programmes with a more diverse genre approach, including allocating dedicated space for folk music and cultural performances. "In the past, we may have focused solely on classical music but now we need to broaden that. Folk music, traditional music - all of these are now part of MPO's offerings to the public. "We have genres like asli, inang, zapin, joget and others, which are not only unique but also reflect the grace and beauty of Malay culture,' he said, hoping that these rhythms will continue to be appreciated, especially among the younger generation. Ahmad Muriz added that MPO is also taking a community-centred approach by holding promotional performances in public spaces such as LRT stations, as a way to introduce traditional music in a more relaxed and accessible setting. "We want people to feel that this music belongs to them. When it's played in public spaces, we show that traditional music is not just for formal performances but a part of everyday life. "For example, yesterday we held a flash mob at the Pasar Seni LRT station (in Kuala Lumpur). It wasn't just locals who were drawn to the music but even tourists showed interest and joined in with us,' he said. Simfoni Budaya returns On the big stage, MPO will present the second edition of the Simfoni Budaya concert at Dewan Filharmonik Petronas on July 5, following the enthusiastic response to the first edition last year. A follow-up to last year's successful Simfoni Budaya – a joyous showcase of Malay musical heritage featuring genres like ghazal and keroncong – the upcoming concert continues the journey of blending traditional sounds with lush orchestral arrangements. Audiences can expect a rich tapestry of classic melodies reimagined, brought to life by a mix of seasoned legends and rising talents. Among the featured performers is legendary singer Datuk Andre Goh, alongside a new generation of talent, including Mohd Rozaidy Shukry, better known as Rojer Kajol, a familiar name in the local folk music scene, known for performing ghazal and traditional irama asli songs. Under the baton of conductor Ahmad Muriz, the performance will bring classic Malay songs to life as the MPO presents joget, asli and zapin in rich symphonic form. "This concert is part of our mission. But more importantly, the message is clear - Malay music is a heritage and that heritage must be preserved, shared and celebrated,' he said. Evergreen favourites such as Dikirim Jangan Dipesan Jangan, Mas Merah, Fatwa Pujangga, Nirmala, Tudung Periuk, Simfoni Bunga Tanjung, Joget Burung Merpati, Makan Sireh, Joget Wan Lebor and Mak Inang Kayangan will take centre stage. All songs will feature orchestral arrangements by Luqman Aziz, Ilham Subri, Azhad Sulaiman, Teuku Umar and Shahakam Mokhtar. More info here.
New Straits Times
9 hours ago
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Animated films need more emphasis on story and character
REGARDED as Malaysia's Father of Animation, film historian and animation legend Hassan A Muthalib describes Malaysian films as "not cinematic in terms of narrative and stylistics". While he remains an optimist, he hopes that today's animation gurus focus more on training new animated filmmakers in order for the animation industry to rise. "The animation filmmaker has control over every single frame, unlike the live-action filmmaker. How the director plans everything he sees is dependent on the director's point of view about issues of the day," he said in a recent interview. DYNAMICS Asked where he sees the animation industry 10 years down the road, Hassan said that things would not change much, unless the right film dynamics and the language of cinema are better understood and applied. "Our animated films should be less video-game-like with more stress on story and characters. "The award-winning Latvian film 'Flow' is a good example of how it should be done without fast cuts and incredible camera moves," he said. Hassan admitted that there were always some areas in animation which Malaysians could hardly touch as a result of society's sensitivities. To get around this, he said: "Animation provides an element of fantasy, especially with the use of non-human characters. "Walt Disney has proven it with his animation features from the 1930s to the 1990s. "His philosophy was to create great characters with distinct personalities. "Give them great stories to be acted out." ORANG ASLI One suggestion Hassan has on interesting topics for animated movies is classical Malay literature and Orang Asli folktales. "It's great to explore these, and fantastic stories can be made with the cutting-edge technology we have today. "As far back as 1940 with Disney's 'Fantasia', the ground has already been prepared. "Malaysian-based Japanese filmmaker Yasu Tanaka was the first to do so with his feature film 'Magik'." While censorship is seen as a hindrance to the future development of animated films, Hassan believes that there is a need for it to minimise violence especially in cartoons. "The Censorship Board helps in showing how some things can be overcome. "For example, in 'Pulau' and 'Spilt Gravy On Rice', the films were passed because in the end, it all seemed to be a dream experienced by the protagonist. "However, I was surprised how 'Dongeng Sang Kancil' managed to get through with so much graphic violence, especially since it was aimed at children." Recalling his journey into the industry, Hassan said that he first came to work in Filem Negara Malaysia (FNM) in 1968, and was guided by Anandam Xavier who made Malaysia's first animated short, 'Hikayat Sang Kancil'. "I thought to myself I am never ever going to understand how to do this, but 10 years later, I was making even more complicated camera charts. "I was drawn to his background paintings and it was only when I started making my feature film, 'Silat Legenda' in 1995 that I realised background paintings gave the look of a film." SANG KANCIL Unconsciously, Hassan understood the importance of production design and it played an important role in his next short film, 'Sang Kancil Dan Monyet', in the mid-1980s. "In November 1972, I was assigned to do a Happy Christmas trailer. I discovered that it was not about requiring 24 frames for a second of animation, it was about how fast the animation was and about creating the correct space between drawings." Hassan said that two years later, he came up with his first public service announcement (PSA) about Anti-Hoarding, and in 1979, his controversial 'Nyamuk Aedes PSA' ruffled politicians' feathers. "The talking mosquitoes were very popular with their catchy dialogue, but it was promptly taken off the air because a member of parliament felt that the mosquitoes' leader seemed to parody him." Hassan is the man behind the first anti-dadah trailer in 1979. "Many people were scared stiff by the story of a drug addict who climbs a flight of stairs right into a huge skull's mouth, and turns into a skeleton," he said. JAMALI SHADAT Hassan also collaborated with veteran comedian Datuk Jamali Shadat in a PSA about gas cylinders in 1981. "Esso asked us to make an animated trailer on the do's and don't's of using a gas cylinder. Here's where I roped in Jamali, and he did a fantastic job educating the public with his spontaneous, humorous lecture," he said. Hassan made his first live action PSA in 1983 with 'Keluarga' (Family), and it was shot at University Malaya Medical Centre. "It was the story of a drug addict's parents who awaited the doctor's annoucement following their son's admission to hospital," he said, adding that the PSA won Best Idea at Anugerah Seri Angkasa. IMUDA Hassan's first win for an animated feature film was 'Mat Gelap' in 1990. It was about the adventures of a zany detective played by Datuk Imuda. When asked about his favourite animated shorts by Malaysian filmmakers, Hassan listed Liew Seng Tatt's 'Don't Play Play', Eugene Foo's 'Grey Avenue', Hajar Aznam's 'Ulek Mayang: Spirits Of The Sea' and Ah Loong's 'The 7th Night: Maomao Revisits'. "All four have simple but well-developed stories and are well put across through animation," he said.
