KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz hopes to see films that highlight Malaysia’s sporting excellence.
The investment, trade, and industry minister, who attended the special screening of the Malaysian sports-based film, Gemencheh Boys, at Central i-City in Shah Alam yesterday, said he was impressed with the film’s message.
“The movie was really touching, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.
“It showcases a true story of how Malaysians can achieve their dreams, regardless of their background, and how sports can foster unity among Malaysians,” said the minister.
Zafrul also expressed his belief that Malaysian-made movies have the potential to achieve greater heights, emphasising the importance of local film directors showcasing the cultural values of the nation.
“This movie has showcased our cultural values in a very proper way, but most importantly, the quality of the movie is on par with internationally acclaimed films.
“I see this as an opportunity for us at the ministry level (Miti) to export our high-quality films to the rest of the world.
“If South Korea can export their films and music globally, we can also export our culture and the success of our sporting stories.
“The movie will have a public screening soon, so I urge the public to come and support this inspiring film,” he added.
Meanwhile, former Malaysian cricketer Mohd Shafiq Sharif is delighted to see his early struggles being portrayed on the big screen and dedicates all his achievements to his mentor and former school teacher, Azman Abdul Aziz.
“I’m feeling so emotional right now. I’m delighted to see the story of my Gemencheh team in this movie.
“We all worked hard to succeed in this sport, and the praise and glory should go to my mentor, Cikgu Azman, for moulding me into who I am today.
“I’m nothing without his guidance,” said Shafiq.
The 33-year-old, who won the gold medal in the 2017 Kuala Lumpur SEA Games, also shared his views on the current progress of the Malaysian cricket team and hopes to see their excellent form continue.
“Our cricket team has been performing well recently, especially our women’s team that made it to the quarterfinals against a strong Indian side.
“Although we lost the match in 15 overs, I am happy to see the progress of the sport, and I hope more Malaysians can take up this sport after watching our true-based film,” added Shafiq.
Hitting cinemas nationwide on October 26, the film is an adaptation of true events revolving around a group of boys known as the ‘enam jahanam’ (six rascals) who made a name for themselves in Malaysian sporting history through cricket.
The Gemencheh Boys tells the story of six Felda boys who transformed their lives after a teacher introduced them to cricket, leading them on a journey to the national sporting stage.
The film is directed by Jason Chong and Eric Ong, winners of the 2017 Malaysian Film Festival, and produced by Astro Shaw along with GV Corporate Advisory and SOL Pictures.
Gemencheh Boys also features an exceptional cast, including Pekin Ibrahim, Datuk Ahmad Tamimi Serigar, Farah Ahmad, Arumugam Vedan, and Zaidi Omar. – October 2, 2023