KUCHING: A movie titled ‘Kumang – I’m No Longer 17’ has made history as the first fully Sarawak-made 90-minute feature film to reach the top 16 movies in Malaysia.
The film also received the (National Film Development Corporation Malaysia) FINAS Feature Film Screening Incentive (ITFC 2.0) on June 20, in Kuala Lumpur.
Recognised by FINAS Malaysia as a “Box Office” quality feature film, this accomplishment marks a significant milestone for the Sarawak film industry.
Directed by Alaric Soh Huang Siah, ‘Kumang’ is a self-funded project, with no initial financial support from FINAS.
He emphasised the challenges and dedication required in filmmaking, noting that “there is no shortcut and quick success. It is a long arduous journey.”
After enjoying a successful four-month run on AstroFirst following its launch on July 13, 2023, ‘Kumang’ is soon to be offered to Netflix for global audiences.
“Making feature movies for cinemas and over-the-top (OTT) platforms like Netflix is relatively new and in its infant stage in Sarawak.
“I am glad to be the first to make a fully Sarawak feature movie, taking the initiative of using my own funding.
“If I, from the private sector, can take the initiative of using my own funding, I also hope the Sarawak government will take the initiative in helping us filmmakers and encourage us to make more movies,” he said to the Sarawak Tribune.
On a Facebook post, Soh shared his thoughts on the film’s success and future prospects for Sarawak filmmakers.
“Having an intense conversation with the chairman of FINAS in Kuala Lumpur and fighting for FINAS Digital Content Grant (DKD) to help the film industry in Sarawak, I was assured by the chairman that they are working out a special scheme for us.
“Therefore, I foresee good prospects for Sarawak filmmakers, especially those making feature films for cinemas, as FINAS has big plans for Sarawak.
“Just be patient and never give up. It took almost three years for Kumang to make it on stage and capture the attention and interest of FINAS,” he said.
Towards this end, he extended his gratitude to everyone who contributed to the success of ‘Kumang.’
The film, addressing social issues in Sarawak and featuring dialogues in Iban and Sarawak Malay languages, garnered critical acclaim and was awarded the Best Asia Indie Film in 2023.
The story centres on Kumang, an 18-year-old village girl who is naive, playful, naughty, self-centred, determined and compassionate.
Born out of wedlock, Kumang is raised by her single mother in a village. After completing her Malaysian Certificate of Education (SPM), she finds herself at a crucial crossroads, facing a significant decision about her future.
Kumang must navigate the complexities of choosing between pursuing her education, following her heart or chasing her dreams. This period of change forces her to confront her priorities and figure out the direction her life should take.
