The film won five awards including Best Film, Best Original Story, Best Art Direction, Best Child Actor for Rykarl Iskandar and Best Director for Liew Seng Tat.
Liew, 35, said he was overwhelmed by the film's victory and hoped it will inspire local filmmakers to continue working hard for the industry.
"Let's make more films," he said on stage at the Plenary Hall of the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre where the star-studded event was held.
Lelaki Harapan Dunia, which highlights the local angkat rumah tradition, has travelled to various film festivals around the world including the Toronto International Film Festival in Canada and Taipei Golden Horse Festival in Taiwan.
"When we set out to do Lelaki Harapan Dunia, we knew that we were making a film for all Malaysians. To have this recognition here today, means a lot to us," said producer Sharon Gan.
The Journey was another big winner taking home four awards, including Best Actor for Lee Sai Peng and Best Non-Malay Language film.
"This is the first time I get to stand on stage and receive an award like this. It makes me feel younger," said Lee, 75. The Journey also received the Box Office Award and Best Cinematography.
Nur Fazura took home the Best Actress award for her role in Manisnya Cinta Di Cappadocia.
Filmmaker Othman Hafsham received the Lifetime Achievement award (Anugerah Karyawan Sepanjang Zaman).
In a hilarious speech, he urged his children, film directors Shamyl and Shamaine Othman to consider collaborating with him.
"Come and work with dad," the 74-year-old filmmaker said.Already a subscriber? Log in
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