'Abang Adik' Selected To Represent Malaysia At The Oscars
The film is Malaysia's first production to achieve record-breaking screenings.
Local film Abang Adik has been selected to represent Malaysia at the 97th Academy Awards under the International Feature Film category, scheduled for March 2025
In a statement yesterday, 3 October, the National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) said the film, directed by Jin Ong, was selected after a series of evaluations by its film selection committee, which consists of professionals in the field.
"Produced by More Entertainments Sdn Bhd, the film features stellar performances by Jack Tan from Malaysia and Kang Ren Wu from Taiwan. This masterpiece has garnered 19 international awards — an achievement that demonstrates Malaysia's capability to compete and shine on the global level," it said.
The movie has won the Best Film at the Asia New York Film Festival (22nd Uncaged Competition), the Golden Mulberry Audience Award, the Black Dragon Critics' Prize, and the White Mulberry Award for Best First Feature at the 25th Far East Film Festival in Udine, Italy.
Taiwanese actor Kang Ren Wu also won the Beast Leading Actor in the Golden Horse Award, considered the equivalent of the Academy Awards in the Chinese-speaking world.
Taiwanese actor Kang Ren Wu (left) and Malaysian actor Jack Tan (right) playing as 'abang' and 'adik', respectively, in the movie.
In addition to its critical success, Abang Adik is also a box office hit, earning RM5.7 million in Malaysia, RM14.6 million in Taiwan, RM1.55 million in Hong Kong, and RM2.2 million in China
FINAS stated that the film is Malaysia's first production to achieve record-breaking screenings.
"We hope the development of high-value local films continues, enabling the country's film industry to compete on the international stage," said the governing body for the film industry.
Abang Adik is Ong's directorial debut and is co-produced by local actress Angelica Lee, a Golden Horse Award winner.
The film follows the journey of two undocumented brothers striving for citizenship in Malaysia. It beautifully captures their struggles and the deep bond they share while navigating the challenges of their uncertain lives.
Abang Adik is currently streaming on Netflix. Watch it here.
In 2019, Upin & Ipin: Keris Siamang Tunggal was selected to represent Malaysia at the 92nd Academy Awards:
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