Astro Shaw continues its mission of bringing meaningful Malaysian stories to cinemas with its latest feature film, HAK: Tuntut Atau Tunduk.
Produced in collaboration with Etika Sdn Bhd through its iconic beverage brands 7UP and Mirinda, alongside Enotech Pictures and Icon Pictures, the upcoming film promises a grounded yet emotionally powerful story that reflects the realities shaping modern Malaysian society.
Currently in production around the Klang Valley, the film is expected to hit cinemas nationwide later this year.
A Story About Society, Dignity and Human Choices
Set against the backdrop of changing communities and evolving workplace realities, HAK: Tuntut Atau Tunduk dives into themes that resonate strongly with Malaysians today.
Rather than presenting a simple commercial drama, the film explores deeper issues surrounding:
- dignity
- responsibility
- integrity
- ownership
- human connection
The story encourages audiences to reflect on how societal values influence the way people live, work and interact with one another.
At its core, the film raises important questions:
- Are people standing up for their rights?
- Or are they surrendering to pressure and circumstances?
- What happens when survival begins to outweigh morality?
These themes are expected to make the film one of Astro Shaw’s more socially reflective projects in recent years.
First Collaboration Between Syafiq Kyle and Beto Kusyairy
One of the film’s biggest highlights is the first-ever on-screen collaboration between Syafiq Kyle and Beto Kusyairy.
The movie also features a strong supporting cast including:
- Mimi Lana
- Kodi Rasheed
- Fizz Fairuz
- Aziz M. Osman
- Rubini Sambanthan
- El Umar Mokhtar
The combination of experienced performers and strong dramatic material is expected to deliver emotionally intense performances throughout the film.
Directed by Ezrie Gazali
The film is helmed by acclaimed director Ezrie Gazali, who previously gained recognition for Abah Saya Uncle Mike.
The screenplay is written by Alfie Palermo, best known for creating the premium series One Cent Thief.
The original story concept was initiated by Santharuban Thurai Sundaram, showcasing a unique collaboration between corporate brands and storytelling-driven filmmaking.
Together, the creative team aims to present a socially grounded narrative that balances realism, suspense and emotional depth.
A Realistic Look at Malaysian Life
To strengthen the film’s authenticity, production is taking place across real locations in the Klang Valley including:
- public markets
- residential apartments
- urban community spaces
These settings are designed to reflect everyday Malaysian life while enhancing the realism of the story.
According to Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, the film reflects Astro Shaw’s commitment to producing stories that mirror the realities faced by society today.
She explained that HAK: Tuntut Atau Tunduk adopts a bolder narrative approach by exploring economic pressures, changing social structures and the erosion of certain community rights due to external and systemic challenges.
Rather than taking a one-sided approach, the film seeks to encourage audiences to examine issues from multiple perspectives.
Brands Supporting Meaningful Conversations
The involvement of 7UP and Mirinda in the project also reflects a growing trend where brands move beyond traditional advertising to support socially relevant storytelling.
According to Amy Gan, the collaboration represents a narrative-led partnership aimed at creating meaningful conversations through cinema.
She noted that the discussion around “HAK” or rights is not solely about entitlement, but also responsibility.
The film invites Malaysians to reflect on:
- the dignity of honest work
- shifting ownership within communities
- economic survival
- the value society places on certain professions
Amy also highlighted an important perspective presented by the film:
before questioning why certain spaces are changing hands, society should first ask why those spaces were left behind in the first place.
This layered approach gives the movie stronger emotional and social relevance beyond entertainment.
The Story of Hakim
The film follows Hakim, played by Syafiq Kyle, an operations officer working at a public market.
Desperate to secure financial stability before the birth of his first child, Hakim becomes trapped in a cycle of exploitation involving foreign workers around him.
However, his situation spirals further when he discovers a mysterious bag filled with cash.
The discovery places Hakim and his family in danger as ruthless individuals begin hunting for the missing money.
As tension escalates, Hakim must decide whether to continue down a dangerous path or protect the people he loves before it is too late.
A Malaysian Film with Purpose
With its socially conscious themes, grounded storytelling and talented cast, HAK: Tuntut Atau Tunduk is shaping up to be one of the more thought-provoking Malaysian films of 2026.
The project also highlights how local cinema can be used as a platform to spark conversations about real societal issues while still delivering engaging entertainment.
As Astro Shaw continues expanding the scope of Malaysian storytelling, HAK: Tuntut Atau Tunduk stands as another strong example of how local films can combine emotional narratives with meaningful social reflection.
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