Latest news with #Malaysian
New Straits Times
an hour 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.
The Star
2 hours ago
- Sport
- The Star
New boys Saiful and Baqiuddin face stiff test to make Turtles first XI
PETALING JAYA: Terengganu have bolstered their squad ahead of the Super League campaign by snapping up Pahang's Saiful Jamaluddin and Baqiuddin Shamsuddin but it will not be plain sailing for them. Both Saiful and Baqiuddin, who had been without a team following Pahang's decision to pull out from the new season, can expect keen internal rivalry to make the first 11 with the Turtles. The 23-year-old Saiful is set for stiff competition with seasoned campaigner Akram Mahinan for a spot in the defensive midfield. Saiful, known for his work rate, is unfazed by the challenge. 'Akram is a vastly experienced player and he is my senior, but I look forward to a healthy rivalry,' said Saiful. Eager for action: Saiful Jamaluddin posing for a photograph after signing for Terengganu. — Terengganu FC 'I'm happy to be with Terengganu as they're one of the best sides in the league. They have strong players and great facilities.' Saiful added that it was the right move for him as he would have familiar faces in the dressing room such as his Malaysian Under-23 teammates – defenders Ubaidullah Samsul Fazili, Safwan Mazlan and Azam Azmi Murad and former teammate Asnan Ahmad. Meanwhile, the experienced winger Baqiuddin, 30, brings depth and versatility to Terengganu's attacking options on the flanks. A proven performer in the Super League, Baqiuddin is under no illusions about the competition he faces. 'It would be a fierce competition because there isn't just Akhyar Rashid. I've to take on Syahmi Zamri, Nik Shareef Haseefy, and Engku Shakir Nur Yakob,' said Baqiuddin. 'But that's what excites me. I'm happy to continue with this professional journey in a great club like Terengganu. 'This is my first time under coach Badrul (Afzan Razali), so I have to work hard to adapt to his ways and show that I can compete against the other wingers in the team.' With these two additions, Terengganu have signalled their intent to remain highly competitive in the league while continuing to blend youthful talent with seasoned professionals. As for foreign players, it is learnt that the club could be signing attackers from Cameroon and France and a centreback from Brazil. They have also been linked with former Perak playmaker Careca, who is now with South Korean Division Three club Gangneung. The 29-year-old Careca played for Perak, from 2018 to 2020, and scored 11 goals in 30 games. Terengganu have released all their foreigners except for Uzbekistan midfielder Nurillo Tukhtasinov, who has penned a one-year extension with the Turtles.
The Star
2 hours ago
- Business
- The Star
Pahang hit pause button to plot stronger M-League comeback
PETALING JAYA: Pahang do not see their withdrawal from the new Super League season as an end to their football journey. Instead, the club described their difficult decision as a 'strategic pause' aimed at strengthening the team's internal structure and laying the foundation for long-term sustainability before making a comeback. In a statement released on Thursday night, Pahang emphasised that the move was a necessary step to secure the future of the club, who have long been a cornerstone of Malaysian football. 'This is not a goodbye, but a necessary pause,' the statement read. 'We believe that taking a step back now will allow us to take stronger steps forward. 'We hope to return better equipped to contribute to the growth of football in the state of Pahang.' The club's management cited the need for time to rebuild and improve internal operations, administrative efficiency, and overall development strategies to meet the demands of modern footballing era. Pahang also took the opportunity to thank all stakeholders, including league organisers, sponsors, authorities, and especially their dedicated supporters. 'We thank all parties who have stood by us. Your unwavering support means the world, and we hope to see you again in the seasons to come.' Pahang's exit follows similar moves by Kedah and Perak, both of which pulled out of the Malaysian League due to ongoing financial struggles, including unresolved salary arrears. With Pahang's withdrawal, the 2025–2026 season will now feature 13 confirmed teams – Johor Darul Ta'zim, Selangor, Penang, Kuching City, Sabah, Terengganu, Negri Sembilan, Kelantan, Kuala Lumpur, Police, Brunei and two promoted clubs from A1 Semi-Pro League, Melaka and Immigration.
The Star
2 hours ago
- Sport
- The Star
Ex-PFAM boss Safee keeping door open for possible future lead role in FAM
PETALING JAYA: Former international Safee Sali has his eyes set on leading Malaysian football from the top – by becoming the Football Association of Malaysia (FAM) president one day. The former national striker officially stepped down as president of the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia (PFAM) yesterday, ending a near seven-year tenure marked by strong advocacy for player welfare. For now, the 41-year-old Safee will shift his focus to his broadcasting career – but made it clear that his passion for football development is far from over. Having served as PFAM president since 2019, Safee's third term tenure was supposed to end in January 2026, but he has had a change of heart. Ready to go: Safee Sali officially stepped down as president of the Professional Footballers Association of Malaysia yesterday. 'It was not an easy decision, I believe it is time for me to step aside and allow the younger generation to take the lead,' he said in a heartfelt statement. 'I love this game, but I have to let go, for now.' Safee disclosed that his perspective shifted after a recent trip to Japan, where he observed their national body being led by former national players, young, energetic, and deeply connected to the modern game. The Japan Football Association are currently led by former international footballer Tsuneyasu Miyamoto. 'When I saw how the FA in Japan are led by former national players, it really resonated with me,' said Safee. 'Maybe it's time for me to write another chapter. Maybe even consider the presidency of FAM one day. 'Only footballers truly understand what it takes to run this sport. 'I've left the door open for a possible leadership role in FAM as my unique blend of on-field experience and off-field administration can come in handy. 'It's not impossible. If I ever get the chance to do something bigger for football, I'll be ready. 'I believe I can bring value. I've been through everything, both as a player and a leader. I'm looking forward to what's next.' Safee said he has spoken with PFAM chief executive officer Izham Ismail and proposed that the current deputy president Razman Roslan take over on an interim basis until new elections are held at the end of the year. 'I want to give space for new faces, players who are passionate and serious about shaping this body,' he said. 'It's a great opportunity for the younger generation to learn about their rights and how to manage a professional football organisation.' Under Safee's leadership, PFAM grew in visibility and influence, championing players welfare, raising awareness on contractual rights, and strengthening the voice of footballers across Malaysia. Though stepping down, Safee made it clear he was not stepping away from the game entirely. Now more involved in broadcasting and commercial ventures, he remains active in the football industry. 'I'm really focused on the commercial side now and enjoying broadcasting work. But my passion for the game hasn't faded. 'I want to bring my experience, from playing to management, and use it to contribute more meaningfully to Malaysian football in the future.'
Time of India
7 hours ago
- Politics
- Time of India
Malaysia cracks down against ISIS by detaining 36 Bangladeshi nationals
In a major crackdown against international terrorism Malaysia has detained 36 Bangladeshi nationals on allegations of having ties to Islamic State, the country's Home Minister announced in a statement on Friday. Malaysian Home Minister Saifuddin Nasution Ismail said the Bangladeshis were detained during three raids conducted since 24 April in the country's Selangor and Johor states. Ismail claimed that the detainees set up a terrorist recruitment cell to spread the extremist ideologies inspired by the Islamic State within the Bangladeshi diaspora, collect terror funds, and oust the Bangladesh government. Malaysia would not promote terrorism and extremist movements targeted at foreign lands from its territory, nor would it tolerate threats to its national security, the Home Minister said. 'The Special Branch team's intelligence and coordinated action revealed that this group brought in extremist beliefs based on the Islamic State (IS) ideology into the country,' Ismail said. Another 15 individuals of unspecified nationalities have also been issued deportation orders, while 16 others are still under investigation for their suspected involvement in the ISIS. The Malaysian Home Minister said the success of this operation has shown the efficiency and professionalism of Malaysia's security forces — especially the police — in ensuring the country's sovereignty, harmony and public peace. He said the Home Ministry will continue to strengthen intelligence capabilities and increase enforcement, besides working together with both domestic and foreign security agencies to ensure Malaysia remains peaceful, stable and free from threats of terrorism. 'Any attempts to make Malaysia a base for militant operations or transit centre for extremism movements will be tackled with firm, quick and effective action,' the Minister said. Since the ouster of PM Sheikh Hasina last August the outlawed terror and radical groups in Bangladesh have activated themselves and are dominating political discourse.
