16/07/2025

LYFE WEDNESDAY | JULY 16, 2025

/thesuntelegram FOLLOW / Malaysian Paper

ON TELEGRAM m RAM

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Domestic movies doing great at box office T HE local film industry has experienced a significant boost, with a box office collection of RM162.89 million as of June 30, surpassing the total earnings of the previous year. o Local film earnings hit RM162.89m by June 30 and 2023, respectively. She said one of the main contributors was the animated film Ejen Ali The Movie 2 , which garnered RM55.2 million as of June 30, making it the highest-grossing local animated film in Malaysia. Communications secretary-general

Im Not Gangster cast at a recent media conference.

New horror flick exposes black magic AMID the flood of local horror films, Munajjim: Sekutu Iblis stands out by highlighting the dark reality of a society that still relies on shamans (bomoh) and black magic as a shortcut to solving problems. Scheduled for release starting July 31 and produced by Yusrych Global Sdn Bhd, the film brings to light the issue of black magic and deviant practices that continue to persist within certain segments of modern society. “ Munajjim is inspired by real events. We hope the film will serve as a reminder that such practices clearly deviate from Islamic teachings,” said its producer Yusry Makmor. Munajjim: Sekutu Iblis was conceptualised by Yusry, Zafran Aziz and Rozita Mat Isa. Filming took place in January at several locations in Selangor. Director Faizul A. Rashid said the film was crafted to evoke fear through realistic elements in order to deliver a weighty message in a cinematic form. “This film invites viewers to reflect on the dangers and reality of superstitious practices that still persist in society today,” he said. The film’s cast includes Farid Kamil, Uqasha Senrose, Che Puan Juliana Evans, Mustaqim Bahadon, Sherrie Merlis and child actor Daniel Aqil. – Bernama Munajjim: Sekutu Iblis is set for release starting July 13. – IMDBPIC Dissy returns to big screen after success of Close Ur Kopitiam ONLINE comedy content team Dissy, whose film Close Ur Kopitiam grossed RM13 million, is returning with a bold and outrageous Chinese New Year (CNY) satire Im Not Gangster – a comedy that uses the “lowest” kind of humour to expose the “highest” level of absurdity. No longer set in the humble kopitiam , this new story dives into the urban jungle, where a young man finds himself accidentally caught in a gang power struggle as betrayals and conspiracies follow closely behind. From online sketches to the big screen, Dissy continues to use satire and irony to reflect real issues – finding truth in the ridiculous. Im Not Gangster is more than just a comedy, it is a sharp look at today’s society. This is a comedy that will redefine what it means to be “low” (class). Directed by Vince Chong and supported once again by Mark Lee, the film reunites the full original Dissy cast – Songbill, Dahee, Morn Liew, Anthony Ng, Kim Chen Wu, Adeline Wong, Yuriko, Yuniyce, Zuvia, Michie Lam and Judy. Although filming has yet to begin, Dissy is going all out to create large-scale scenes, with a cast size already nearing 1,000 people. As such, Dissy remains committed to telling original Malaysian stories, combining fun and depth to create CNY movies that truly speak to local audiences.

Ministry’s

deputy

(Strategic Communications and Creative Industry), Nik Kamaruzaman Nik Husin, National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) chairman Datuk Hans Isaac and Finas CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib. On FFM34, Teo stated over 60 films are expected to compete across 30 categories, adding that the submission of entries opens is until July 18. According to Teo, FFM34 will feature the Best Action and Stunt Award, a new category to honour the dedication of industry professionals in the action genre. “Local action film productions have shown improvements in technical aspects and safety standards, along with strong viewing appeal. This category is introduced to recognise the courage and professionalism of production teams and stunt performers who are often at the forefront of high-risk scenes,” she said. Teo added that FFM34 is not just an awards event, but a strategic platform to strengthen cultural diplomacy, open up investment opportunities, and expand the national film industry’s network. She also urged industry players, including directors, producers, writers, technical teams, associations and strategic partners, to work together to strengthen the country’s film ecosystem. “I am confident FFM34 will continue to serve as a vital platform to uplift local works, expand global market reach, and showcase Malaysian talent on the international stage,” she added. Organised by Finas, FFM34 will take place at the Seri Angkasa Auditorium, Angkasapuri Kota Media, on Nov 8, carrying the “Karya Kreatif, Sinema Dinamik” theme. – Bernama

“The animated film Ejen Ali The Movie 2 not only captured the attention of the local audience, but also made a splash in Indonesian cinemas, drawing 200,000 viewers in its first week of screening. This proves our content has now reached an international standard,” she said during the first press conference for the 34th Malaysian Film Festival (FFM34) in Kuala Lumpur recently. Also present were the

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the amount was generated from the screening of 39 feature films, compared with RM125.28 million and RM102.66 million collected in 2024

Ejen Ali 2 is one of the movies that help boost profile of local productions. – PIC FROM INSTAGRAM @EJENALI

Kiiras wins first Rookie Award after debut, cementing status as fifth-gen girl group

ROOKIE girl group Kiiras has earned the honour of taking home its first rookie award since debut. Kiiras was recently named Rookie of the Year at the 24th Korea Best Brand Awards – 2025 Korea Hallyu Entertainment Awards, solidifying its reputation as one of the hottest fifth-generation rookies. In its acceptance speech, Kiiras shared: “We will work even harder to promote K-pop and make sure this rookie award is not in vain. “We promise to do our best so we can meet many fans not only in Korea but also around the world, including Ling Ling’s home country Malaysia.” The 2025 Korea Hallyu Entertainment Awards, which Kiiras attended, is an event that brings together stars loved. As “super rookies”, Kiiras was recognised for its potential, making the occasion even more meaningful. Having made its debut in May with Kill Ma Bo$$ , Kiiras captured fans’ hearts with its unique cowgirl concept and live performances. The members continued to showcase their signature bright and energetic charm

Kiiras clinches Rookie of the Year at the 2025 Korea Hallyu Entertainment Awards, proving its place as the hottest next-gen rising stars.

with their follow-up single Ziller! , breathing new life into the K-pop scene. As a result, the group climbed to fifth

on Malaysia’s iTunes Top Albums chart, drawing global attention as next generation stars and heightening anticipation for what is to come.