KUALA LUMPUR - While many local films continue to captivate audiences with thrilling action sequences and emotionally charged narratives, Malaysian-Taiwanese co-production ‘Sayang Sayang’ takes a different approach, inviting viewers to pause and reflect on the meaning of love in a world of silence.
At first glance, the film might seem like a conventional family drama set against the scenic landscapes of Terengganu. However, that initial impression quickly changes as the story unfolds.
Taiwanese director Tang Hsiang-Chu brings a fresh perspective to the film, exploring themes of identity and social acceptance, as well as the meaning of love, which does not always have to be expressed through words.
Produced by More Entertainment Sdn Bhd and IS Entertainment Co Ltd, the film follows Nancy (played by Jo Kukathas), who returns to her hometown with her son Ajay (Nandagopall Mohan), a deaf and non-speaking teenager, with plans to establish a sign language class.
Their efforts lead them to Mina (Mhia Firdaus), a deaf and non-speaking Malay girl who is passionate about Muay Thai but whose aspirations are constrained by her family’s traditional expectations.
Also woven into the narrative is San San (Sasha Tang), a deaf and non-speaking Chinese girl who has a deep love for the sea but faces restrictions imposed by her family’s customs and beliefs.
The film, which opens in Malaysian cinemas tomorrow, has already achieved a significant milestone, earning five nominations at the upcoming 63rd Golden Horse Awards in Taiwan. The nominations are in the Best Supporting Actress, Best New Performer, Best Original Screenplay, Best Sound Effects and Best Visual Effects categories.
The appeal of ‘Sayang Sayang’ lies not only in the picturesque Terengganu coastline but also in the director’s ability to weave the spirit, culture and daily lives of the local community into a narrative that appears effortless.
Tang’s extensive experience in location sound recording is also evident in the film’s meticulous sound design. Natural sounds such as crashing waves, blowing wind and footsteps on sand are carefully blended to bring scenes to life and strengthen the storytelling.
The use of ambient sounds allows audiences to experience the contrast between the world of people who can hear and that of those living with hearing loss.
Scenes without dialogue or intrusive background music are not simply left empty. On the contrary, it is precisely those moments that allow the audience to delve more deeply into the feelings of each character.
Mhia’s nomination at the prestigious awards is also well deserved, given the challenge of portraying a character who does not speak. The young actress convincingly conveys Mina’s emotions through her expressive eyes, facial expressions and natural body language.
The relationship between Mina and her father, played by Khir Rahman, is among the film’s most moving moments, further strengthened by the convincing performances of Farah Ahmad and Amir Ahnaf as her mother and older brother, respectively.
The natural chemistry among Mhia, San San and Ajay also shines through their interactions in sign language, demonstrating how linguistic and racial barriers can dissolve when people approach one another with empathy and mutual respect.
Adding another emotional layer to the film is its official theme song, ‘Sayang’, performed by Datuk Seri Sheila Majid, which lends warmth and poignancy to the narrative.
However, viewers accustomed to fast-paced films may find ‘Sayang Sayang’ somewhat slow at the beginning. Nevertheless, those willing to immerse themselves in its quiet storytelling will discover a meaningful message: no matter how far people may wander, love and family remain the safest place to return to. - BERNAMA