A ‘Sandiwara’ to sell Malaysia


An authentic ride: In ‘Sandiwara’, one character Yeoh plays is a carefree waitress who whizzes through the alleys lined with pre-war houses on her bicycle in George Town. — Photos: Sandiwara/Self-Portrait

OSCAR winner Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh’s 10-minute film could not have come at a better time. It’s Chinese New Year and the country has just launched Visit Malaysia 2026.

Most of us are also exhausted of the country’s incessant toxic race and religious politics. We are in search of positive and productive content that can lift up our spirits.

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Wong Chun Wai , On the beat column
Wong Chun Wai

Wong Chun Wai

Wong Chun Wai began his career as a journalist in Penang, and has served The Star for over 35 years in various capacities and roles. He is now group editorial and corporate affairs adviser to the group, after having served as group managing director/chief executive officer. On The Beat made its debut on Feb 23 1997 and Chun Wai has penned the column weekly without a break, except for the occasional press holiday when the paper was not published. In May 2011, a compilation of selected articles of On The Beat was published as a book and launched in conjunction with his 50th birthday. Chun Wai also comments on current issues in The Star.

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