We’ve had some pretty amazing milestones as a country this year, and some of these achievements were shared by our amazingly talented local artistes.
So, before we jet set into a new chapter in 2019, let’s take a look at some of the greatest moments our Malaysian artistes have achieved in 2018.
#1 Henry Golding
Henry Golding has the world ‘gold’ in his name for a good reason – he can proudly say that 2018 was his golden year. His breakthrough role as the lead actor in the critically-acclaimed ‘Crazy Rich Asian’ not only paved his way to Hollywood but minted him as “one of the industry's must-hire new actors”, according to GQ magazine.
The publication also named Golding as GQ’s Star of the Year. It’s also heart-warming to see that the Sarawakian is always boasting about our country in almost every interview he gives.
#2 Neelofa
This business mogul, social media queen and TV host continues to inspire us Malaysians year after year. Her achievements just seem to outdo itself one after another. In 2018, she’s accomplished a lot of things, but one milestone that stood out the most is when she announced that she’s signed to a UK-based modelling and talent agency, Established Models.
She’s the first and only hijab influencer so far to be signed by the agency. The 29-year-old plans to penetrate the European market, so we predict 2019 will be her big break.
#3 Joe Flizzow
Proudly representing the ‘47500’ postcode, the Subang Jaya rapper has made it from SS15 all the way to the MTV European Music Awards. Joe Flizzow created history after winning the ‘Best Southeast Asia Act’ at the 2018 MTV EMA and also becoming the first ever Malaysian to win the accolade.
#4 ‘Munafik 2’
2018 has been by far the most outstanding year for the local movie industry. We have raked over RM150 million collectively with several movies conceding each other at the box office and subsequently breaking records. One movie in particular tops all movies this year – ‘Munafik 2’. The horror film directed and starring Syamsul Yusof garnered RM43 million at the box office, edging out ‘Hantu Kak Limah’ which earned RM38 million.
#5 Zee Avi
Another local songbird that has paved her musical journey in the international arena, Zee Avi, was recently given recognition at the Top Asia Corporate Ball in Jakarta, Indonesia. The "Bitter Heart" singer was awarded the ‘International Young Artiste Award’ for her ‘exceptional musical talents and achievements in the international music arena’.
The Borneo lass is currently working on a new album slated for release in 2019.
We can't wait to see what our entertainment industry has in store for us next year. Who will be the next international star? Which movie will claim the throne as the highest-grossing local movie? Exciting times, ahead!