30/04/2026

LYFE THURSDAY | APR 30, 2026

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Mamu The Movie blends emotion, comedy, culture o Film to release in December, starring Saiful Apek as lead character

AFTER three decades of making its mark on the regional music scene, popular Indonesian band Ungu is set to celebrate its artistic journey through the “Konsert Ungu 3 Dasawarsa: Special Night in Kuala Lumpur” scheduled to take place at Idea Live Arena on Sept 5. The special concert is expected to rekindle fans’ nostalgia while serving as a tribute to those who have supported the group since its formation in 1996. It will also showcase the band’s musical evolution across various phases over the years. Comprising Pasha, Enda, Oncy, Makki and Rowman, the group remains relevant despite each member now juggling different commitments, including politics, production and business. Representing the band, guitarist Enda, 50, said its greatest strength lies in its principle of putting the group first, even as each member pursues different career paths, an approach that has helped them navigate differences over three decades together. Directed by Zulkifli Abu Hassan, filming is scheduled to begin on May 29 around Penang and is expected to take more than a month to complete. Zulkifli said the film adopts a distinctive visual approach, blending cinematic elements inspired by Bollywood, Tamil and Telugu films, complete with musical romantic sequences and vibrant visuals, while still maintaining a strong local identity. The film also celebrates cultural diversity by featuring a multi-ethnic cast within a harmonious narrative, including an Indian heroine character that truly reflects Malaysia’s unique M ALAYSIA’S film industry is set for a fresh injection with Mamu The Movie , a production that promises not only entertainment, but also a rich mix of emotion, comedy, action and family values that resonate deeply with local audiences. Produced by Emilia Nasser, the film draws inspiration from everyday community life, particularly among Penangites, where the term “mamu” symbolises close bonds, brotherhood and the role of a male figure within the family institution. Emilia said the film brings together a strong lineup of popular actors, including Saiful Apek, Wan Raja, Zairi Aziz, Priscilla Nair, Didie Alias, Diana Danielle, Shahidan Izwan, Yassin, Bell Ngasri, Adam Corrie, Risteena and Wafa Reina, alongside emerging talents including digital content creators from Penang, particularly TikTok personalities. “This film is more than just entertainment – it invites audiences to explore the meaning of ‘mamu’ itself: a father, a brother or a male figure who plays an important role in family and society. “The presence of such a strong cast will undoubtedly enhance the storyline and attract audiences from all walks of life,” she told Bernama after the script reading and thanksgiving ceremony for the film. Adding to the excitement, Saiful Apek, whose real name is Muhammad Saiful Azam Mohamed Yusoff, takes on an unconventional transformation to portray the emotionally complex lead character Mamu Tajuddin.

Priscilla (left) and Zairi star in Mamu The Movie , an emotional, action-packed filmcentred around Malaysian communities.

the filmmaking approach and the cinematography, all of these greatly support the acting. If everything planned translates well on screen, I believe it will offer something refreshing to audiences,” he said. With an estimated production cost of nearly RM2 million, the film is targeting box office earnings between RM10 million and RM15 million, while also aiming to penetrate international markets including Singapore, Brunei and Indonesia. Beyond local screenings, the production team plans to submit the film to international film festivals to introduce it on the global stage. Mamu The Movie is expected to hit cinemas on Dec 22.

Zulkifli’s movie is inspired by Indian films.

multicultural society. “We want to show our industry can go further by embracing diverse talents and cultures. Interestingly, more than half of the cast hail from Penang,” he said. At its core, the film centres on the relationship between a father and his child, exploring themes of sacrifice, emotional conflict and the challenges of family life. The beauty of Penang also plays a significant “character” in the film, with more than 30 scenic locations featured, highlighting a blend of traditional charm and modern development. Meanwhile, Saiful Apek was optimistic the film will capture audience attention through its fresh and unexpected storytelling approach. He noted the strength of the production lies not only in its narrative, but also in its technical aspects such as cinematography and filmmaking techniques, which help actors bring their characters to life. “When you look at the screenplay,

The cast and crew of Manu the Movie gather for a photo opportunity at a press conference. – ALL PICS FROM BERNAMA

Ungu marks 30 years with Kuala Lumpur concert at Idea Live Arena

sings when played,” he said. Strong ticket sales

whose real name is Sigit Purnomo Syamsuddin Said, 46, described the band as a “home” that each member will always return to. “Even though we’re busy with our individual commitments, when the call comes, everyone returns. That’s what keeps us strong to this day,” he said. A member of Indonesia’s House of Representatives from the National Mandate Party faction, Pasha added its sense of togetherness is further strengthened by discipline in creating music, including consistently producing new songs. “At the very least, every year we strive to release new work, including religious songs, which have become part of our tradition,” he said. On the selection of songs for the concert, Pasha noted the set list is not determined solely by digital popularity, but also by real audience response during live performances. “There are songs with high views on YouTube, but when performed at concerts, the audience doesn’t sing along. On the other hand, there are less prominent songs that everyone

Bassist Makki, whose real name is Makki Omar Parikesit, 54, said the concert will be curated as a reflection of Ungu’s musical journey from its early days to its latest works. “We want the repertoire to truly represent our journey from the beginning until now, while also offering a fresh approach in terms of musical arrangement and performance concept,” he said. Meanwhile, concert organiser Zairul Addry Helmy of Coms Creative Studio expressed optimistically the concert would achieve strong ticket sales despite current challenges, including the global supply crisis. He said Ungu has a loyal fan base in Malaysia, boosting confidence that tickets could sell out. “God willing, I believe the impact will not be too significant. Despite the crisis, people will still come to enjoy music and entertainment,” he said. Tickets for the concert are on sale now. – Bernama

Indonesian band Ungu is celebrating its musical journey with the ‘Ungu 3 Dasawarsa: Special Night in Kuala Lumpur’ concert this September.

principle is simple, we can argue, but we must never disband,” he said at a press conference for the concert recently. Band and ‘home’ Meanwhile, lead vocalist Pasha,

“When we are called, everyone will drop what they’re doing. This is the ‘main fire.’ Without it, nothing else can thrive. “Problems are inevitable, but the five of us will always sit down together to resolve them. Our