Hong Kong and Malaysian film figures, digital creators, family and friends gathered in Kluang on Friday for an appreciation dinner hosted by Shi Guang Xing Yu founder Shi Guang Xing Yu and VYBE founder Dr Kervis Soo.
Held at Zi Luan Ge, De Jiao Hui Centre, the event carried the theme “Young and Dangerous × XD” and spotlighted the film The Day We Start Again, currently in production.
Organisers expanded the celebration to 118 tables—nearly 1,200 seats—after their original target of 100 tables was reached within three days of invitations opening on Nov. 6. The gathering brought together film professionals, business associates and members of the Kluang community, including teachers, volunteers, relatives and longtime friends of Soo.
Among the invited guests were veteran Hong Kong producer Manfred Wong and actors Jason Chu, Vincent Wan, Mark Cheng and Timmy Hung. Malaysian film figures included Dato’ Kamil Othman, former chairman of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), directors Ryon Lee and DY Loh, actors Charlene An Yu Chin and Yuan Teng, and content creator K-Lao, also known as Lay Kar Heng.
The event connected Hong Kong cinema, Malaysian filmmaking and new-media talent, creating an opportunity for guests to exchange experiences and discuss potential collaboration.
Soo is the producer of The Day We Start Again, directed by Ryon Lee and produced with Lomo Pictures. Filming began on Oct. 6. Some scenes have been shot in Kuala Lumpur, with further location plans including Kluang and Luang Prabang, Laos. The film remains in production, with filming, editing, sound work and distribution still ahead.
The dinner also gave the production team a chance to introduce the people working both in front of and behind the camera to Soo’s hometown supporters, and to share an update on the project’s progress.
Soo’s work spans talent management and livestreaming through Shi Guang Xing Yu, as well as VYBE, an AI entertainment platform designed to connect with content creators.
Following VYBE Malaysia’s launch in September, the team introduced the VYBE iShow talent competition to give singers, dancers and other creators opportunities to present their work and build new connections.
By bringing the film industry, digital platforms and talent development together in Kluang, the organisers aimed to connect professional networks with the hometown community.
