The growing threat of fraudulent overseas job offers has been brought to the big screen through Tiket Sehala (One-Way Ticket), a survival thriller inspired by a true story.
The film sheds light on the harsh reality faced by a group of Malaysian workers who fall victim to a human trafficking syndicate after being lured by promises of lucrative jobs in South Korea.
Director Rahila Ali said Tiket Sehala highlights a global issue that affects not only Malaysians but also many people in other countries.
"This film was produced with a sense of responsibility to show audiences the real impact and consequences of becoming victims,” she said during the film’s launch recently.
Produced by Key Billions Sdn Bhd, the film features a lineup of local actors including Noki K-Clique, Jaa Suzuran, Ainee Mustafa, Zaki Yamani, Sharifah Sakinah, Fancy Goh, as well as former national karate athlete Shaharudin Jamaludin.
The production also includes actors from South Korea, Thailand and Indonesia.
Singer and actor Zaki Yamani described his involvement in the film as a meaningful new experience, particularly as it marks his debut in acting.
The film was shot over two weeks in South Korea, including locations in Seoul, Andong and Yongju. Zaki said working in a professional studio for the first time was especially exciting.
"This was my first time entering a studio built specifically for filming, and it really felt like the ‘vibe’ of the Korean dramas we often watch,” he said, adding that filming night scenes in temperatures dropping below negative 10°C posed a significant challenge.
For Noki K-Clique, starring in Tiket Sehala offered a deeper understanding of the realities behind overseas job scams.
"The storyline, inspired by a true story, was not only challenging from an acting perspective but also raises awareness about the risks faced by victims of such syndicates. When I read the script and realised it was based on a true story, I felt a responsibility to portray the character as best as possible.
"I hope this film will open the public’s eyes and serve as a reminder for people to be more cautious before accepting any job offers abroad,” he said. – Bernama
