MALAYSIAN director and producer Jin Ong has won two prestigious awards at the 37th Fribourg International Film Festival (FIFF) for his debut feature film, Abang Adik.
The Audience Award, which comes with a prize of CHF5,000 (RM24,098), is given to the director whose film is best received by the audience. Meanwhile, the Ecumenical Jury Award, which also comes with the same prize, is given to films that highlight the struggles of minority and poor populations in Africa, Asia, or Latin America.
Produced by Lee Sin-je, a renowned Golden Horse award-winning actress, Abang Adik tells the story of two brothers who face numerous challenges in their lives. The festival praised the film, calling it a moving tale that stays with viewers long after the credits have rolled. Jack Tan, a Malaysian actor, and Wu Kang Ren, a Taiwanese actor, play the lead roles.
Set in modern-day Malaysia, the film depicts the lives of two brothers, Abang and Adi, who rely on each other. Abang is deaf and mute, and has resigned himself to a life of poverty. Adi, on the other hand, refuses to accept his situation and struggles to make a living. Following a tragedy that shatters their relationship, the two learn to rely on one another to confront life's harsh truths.
“I am honoured for the film to have had a world premiere at FIFF. Frankly speaking, it is a great recognition to win the Audience Award. After all, it is a Malaysian story. The subject matter is from a long-term social issue in Malaysia, that of statelessness,” he said in an interview with The Vibes.
Jin Ong confessed that he lacked confidence when he first started directing. Participating in international film festivals provided him with an opportunity to learn from others and to make new connections. During this year's festival, he was impressed with the exceptional submissions from Iran and Japan. Additionally, he was thrilled to meet filmmakers from other countries and exchange ideas.
“I was not sure how the audiences would react after watching it, but I received encouragement and positive feedback after the screening. That is why I have slowly built up my confidence that this is a story which people will connect to and understand. I am very thankful for all these achievements,” he added.
Since 2014, Jin Ong has produced several films, including Shuttle Life, The Gathering, In My Heart, Miss Andy, and The Paradise. With Abang Adik he hopes to raise awareness on the issue of statelessness. He believes that the movie's true appeal lies in the love that the two brothers share. Despite society's mistreatment of them, their bond gives them the strength to survive. – The Vibes, March 31, 2023
