AFTER 69 years of indepedence, Malaysia has come a long way as a sovereign state and nation. Moulded through a rather unique history blending people of different ethnic groups, the country continues to strike a delicate balance in unity and harmony among fellow Malaysians.
Until today (unfortunately) there seems to be a need to remind everyone that we are ‘one nation’ despite the difference in creed and colour. From simple messages in school text books to obvious narratives in the mass (and now social) media platforms, the quest seems never-ending.
We are constantly told to remember various catch-phrases (often derived by the powers that be) signifying acceptance or more accurately, tolerance among the multi-cultural people of Malaysia.
Movies are usually one of the best ways to breathe life into this reminder. And after accolades through local silver screen blockbusters like the record-breaking ‘The Journey’ and the celebrated ‘Ola Bola’, movie maestro Chiu Keng Guan returns to the director’s seat helming ‘Terbang’ another Malaysian feature which is set to mesmerise Malaysian viewers and further instill a greater love and pride of being Malaysian.
The movie which is inspired by the true story of Malaysian champion rally legend, Karamjit Singh depicts the tale of Ajeet (played by Irfan Zaini), who once made a name as an international rally racer.
After an accident that kills his co-driver during one of their biggest races, Ajeet leaves the sport and trades that life for a more peaceful one with his wife Lisa (played by former Miss Malaysia, Shweta Sekhon).
Unfortunately, Lisa falls sick and needs extra medical attention, costing more financial expenses. Despite promising himself to never return to rally racing, Ajeet has no choice but to return to the tracks after receiving an offer, which he believes can help pay for Lisa’s exorbitant medical bills.
However, returning is not as easy as he expected as his new co-driver, a young hot-headed man named Kitt (played by Jack Tan of ‘Abang Adik’ fame) struggles with his own dilemma in getting his father’s blessing to race.
Like Chiu’s previous hit Ola Bola, the film conjures some kind of ‘magic’ allowing viewers to be drawn into the story, complete with some adrenaline rush while evoking a sense of national pride.
In a span of two hours, Malaysian audiences (in particular) are bound to be captivated by the amazing visual effects and most importantly, the touching screenplay set in Malaysia and New Zealand.
Adding the right amount of humour, thanks to Malaysian stellar comedian Zizan Razak who plays Imran, Ajeet’s best friend and business partner, Terbang will ‘get’ to you, one way or another.
The quintessentially Malaysian movie shines with all of the director’s trademarks just like what Chiu successfully left in his previous box-office hits. Tears of joy and sadness may just trickle down your cheeks too thanks to the amazing screenplay by Hazo Mahayuddin, Ashraf Modee Zain, and Mamu Vïes.
With a budget reaching RM10 million, expect nothing less than world-class entertainment.
Furthermore, the film boasts a star-studded cast consisting big local names like Irfan Zaini, Zizan Razak, Jack Tan, Nam Ron, Shweta Sekhon, Michael Helfman, Diana Danielle, Luqman Hafidz, Datuk Ahmad Tamimi Siregar and many more.
This writer can assure you that every money spent on this movie is worth every ‘sen’ and I wouldn’t be surprised if many would return for second (or even third) helpings.
‘Terbang’ is not just a cry to encourage Malaysians to support local movies, but truly is a story that reminds us of how victory and triumph can be overcome by unity, respect and mutual understanding.
You do not have to take my word for it, but the least you can do is watch it for yourself and see if it matches this rave review. I personally feel the movie passed with flying ‘Malaysian colours’! If you enjoyed Ola Bola then you are bound to have a great time with ‘Terbang’.
Terbang is currently showing in all cinemas since its release on Malaysia Day on Sept 16, 2026.