Singapore drama Highway To Somewhere has drawn criticism from Malaysian organisations for portraying the country as a scam-ridden country, reported online portal Stomp, with concerns it could damage Malaysia’s reputation.
The Mediacorp production is a 20-episode Chinese-language series that aired on Singapore’s Channel 8. It was also shown in Malaysia on Astro AEC (Ch 306), after premiering on March 11.
The series centres on a road trip meant to salvage a failing marriage, only to become a nightmare when the couple encounters a scam syndicate.
The article reported that the Malaysia Ma-Zhong Tradition Culture Association (MMZTCA) took to Facebook on April 7 to criticise the drama for depicting the country in a negative light.
Its founding president, Lee Yong Kwee, said the alleged misrepresentation could lead to the misconception that Malaysia is a hub for scams.
Another organisation, the Malaysia Professional Skill Development Education Association, also called for the series to be taken off air.
While Highway To Somewhere has concluded its run on Mediacorp, it remains available on the broadcaster's streaming service.
In response, Shin Min Daily News reported that series' screenwriter Ang Eng Tee said there was no intention to associate Malaysia with scams.
He explained that the mastermind behind the scam syndicate in the series is portrayed as being from abroad, and that the story concludes on a positive note with the criminals’ arrests.
“I hope the show serves as a reminder that scams are becoming more rampant. No matter the country, we need to be vigilant,” Ang told the Chinese-language publication.
The drama was filmed over two months across various locations in Malaysia, to reflect how Singaporeans often travel across the border for road trips.
“We also shot many of Malaysia’s scenic spots beautifully. There was no intention to portray it as a place for fraud,” Ang added.
He noted that the show has received positive feedback, with some viewers expressing interest in visiting the featured locations.
Director Oh Liang Cai told Shin Min that the scam element forms only a small part of the storyline, with the main aim being to highlight lesser-known destinations and showcase Malaysia’s beauty.
Addressing calls from Malaysian organisations to halt the broadcast, Oh said he believes the relevant authorities will review the matter.
