Jin Ong Becomes First Malaysian To Win 3 Awards At Far East Film Festival For 'Abang Adik'
This is the first time a film from Southeast Asia simultaneously won three awards at the festival.
By Parvinsivam Thirunamakarasu — 03 May 2023, 10:57 AM
Malaysian director Jin Ong's social drama film Abang Adik has won big at the 25th Far East Film Festival (FEFF) in Udine, Italy
The heartfelt drama film bagged the first-place Golden Mulberry audience award, the Black Dragon critics' prize, and the White Mulberry Award for best debut feature.
According to Malay Mail, this is the first time a film from Southeast Asia simultaneously won three awards at the festival.
Ong said he didn't expect to take home three awards as he only hoped for one.
"I am honoured for the film to have had a world premiere at FEFF. Frankly speaking, it is a great recognition to win the Audience Award. After all, it is a Malaysian story. The subject matter is from a long-term social issue in Malaysia, that of statelessness," added the 48-year-old director and producer, as quoted by The Vibes.
'Abang Adik' director Jin Ong (left) receiving the Golden Mulberry Audience Award in the 25th Far East Film Festival (FEFF).
Image via South China Morning PostAbang Adik tells the story of two undocumented brothers, including one who is deaf and mute, who have to rely on one another as they confront life's harsh truths
Set in present day Malaysia, the film tells the story of these two orphan brothers in Malay, Mandarin, Cantonese, and sign language.
Malaysian actor Jack Tan and Taiwanese actor, Wu Kang Ren, star in the lead roles.
Recently, the 2023 film won two awards at the 37th Fribourg International Film Festival in Switzerland
Abang Adik won the prestigious Audience Award for best reception by the audience and the Ecumenical Jury Award for a film that expresses values of justice, human dignity, respect for the environment, peace, and solidarity.
