Lifestyle
14 Malaysian States Are Reimagined as Iconic Movie Posters by Local Talents for APOM
APOM—A Piece of Malaysia—is a local brand retailer known for its witty and humorous merchandise that celebrates Malaysia's rich culture. This year, the highly anticipated installment of their #Empatbelas2024 collection, a vibrant tribute to the rich cultural tapestry of Malaysia’s 14 states, was unveiled.
Visitors are invited to enjoy the event at Semua House, which runs until 29 September from 10 am to 8 pm and showcases a creative exploration of Malaysia’s heritage and identity through the lens of iconic film posters. Each of the 14 reimagined posters draws inspiration from the unique cultural elements of a different Malaysian state to reflect how global cinematic influences can be uniquely localised.
Among the artists was Jayee, better known as MonKiddo, from Negeri Sembilan, who created a poster inspired by the movie ‘Everything Everywhere All at Once’, featuring our very own Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh. She said, “(The artwork) reflects my deep connection to my hometown. It captures the chaos, beauty, and delights that make Negeri Sembilan so special to me.”
Next, Kedahan Fatin Zamawi imagined the ‘Alor Setar Wars’ where “in the heart of Kedah, a cosmic battle unfolds as the menacing Darth Angkara seeks to conquer the Menara Alor Setar and other iconic monuments,” she said.
Hakim Razali, who hails from Banting Selangor, was inspired by the award-winning Korean movie Parasite. He said, “Imagine a movie about being a Selangorean (or in this case, a Selangorite). Tackling the hustle and bustle of a busy state, making the most of the last drop of water during water shortage season, finding alternative roads to avoid tolls and jams, and last but not least, keeping up with everyone. Half of the people in Selangor are not even locals.” Sounds accurate to us!
Also part of the line-up is Iffah Hazirah, a full-time artist, calligrapher, and small business owner from Sabah, Malaysia. She created Lukistulis, a brand established in 2015, and has collaborated with brands such as Victoria’s Secret and Michael Kors.
She said, “The Lord of the Cincin: The Fellowship of Sabah’ is a playful homage to Sabah’s famous snack, kuih cincin. This poster design features various Sabahan races united in a quest to find the best kuih cincin in Sabah. It celebrates the indigenous diversity in Sabah and our love for local food.”
Calling all Geng Johor! Each design is available on T-shirts, tote bags, posters, postcards, and notebooks.
We also love this reimagined Barbie poster, which reads, “She semua boleh. He’s just bolehlah.”
Penangites can strut around with the ‘Penang Lang Assemble’ design taken from the Avengers, which shows Captain America in charge of Char Koay Teow!
Perlis folks can imagine Indiana Jones being Malaysian with Mat Jones in Perlis. The man in the hat is back!
The Kancil is Melaka’s state animal, and you can show off your state in this Godzilla-inspired design.
The Karate Kid? Nope. Meet ‘The Kelate Kid,’ which represents Kelantan in brilliant shades of red.
Sarawakians can shine with the ‘Invasion of Sarawak’, which features ‘Bujang Senang in Technicolour!
Pahang folks will appreciate this poster inspired by Hayao Miyazaki Kiki’s Delivery Service.
Alice might be in Wonderland, but ‘Alisa ing Tranug’ reps Terengganu in a quirky and cute way.
Perak people can join ‘E.T. in Perak’ for an ‘extra-teman adventure’.
Limited-edition prints and merchandise inspired by the #Empatbelas2024 campaign are also available for purchase at APOM stores and online at www.apom.my for those looking to bring a piece of Malaysia home. You can also shop on Shopee.