KUCHING: Petroliam Nasional Berhad (Petronas) is celebrating the month of Syawal early with a fully animated Hari Raya Aidilfitri webfilm entitled ‘Syukur Raya’, a story presented in a fun and cheeky ‘seloka’ that explores the themes of compassion and kindness.
Petronas Senior General Manager of Group Strategic Communications Datin Anita Azrina Abdul Aziz stated that the animated film was set in a familiar neighbourhood with relatable characters.
“Petronas is continuing with its 2020 festive theme of our unique family and taking it one step further by expanding from the family we know to the family we discover. The fully animated film set in a familiar neighbourhood with relatable characters focuses on going beyond our differences to give and forgive each other in celebrating Hari Raya.
“Despite the current challenges, if we are to open our hearts and minds, the people around us can be our source of joy this Aidilfitri. This ultimately reflects the true spirit of togetherness and generosity of the celebration,” she said in a statement on Monday (May 10).
The webfilm is narrated by a spotted dove named Syuk-kur – a wordplay of ‘syukur’ which means thankfulness and ‘terkukur’ the Malay term for dove.
The charismatic bird acts as a witness to everything that goes on in ‘Taman Bawang’, a neighbourhood the webfilm portrays.
“The story begins with its main character Poji feeling homesick. The hardworking and jovial youth is missing his hometown so much that he begins to envision his fierce next-door neighbour, Mak Jah, as his own mother.
“Giving up hope on family celebrations due to work commitments, Poji and his friends are resolved for a subdued occasion until Mak Jah shares her ‘rendang’ in a surprise gesture, thus reviving their festive spirit and belief in community togetherness,” she explained.
She added that the webfilm was inspired by the Malaysians’ signature warmth and friendliness, the values that were deeply rooted in the nation’s culture.
“Through this webfilm, Petronas is encouraging all Malaysians to embrace the joy of festivities despite the movement restrictions brought upon by the Covid-19 pandemic. It reminds everyone that Hari Raya can still be a joyful affair without the big celebrations that people are accustomed to,” she said.
The webfilm is now live and available for viewing on Petronas’ official YouTube channel and Facebook page.
“Our ‘Raya Joy Pack’ comprising “Syukur Raya” stickers and backdrop scenes to be used via WhatsApp and social media can also be downloaded via our Facebook page,” she added.
