KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 — ‘Pavane for an Infant’, a Malaysian-Hong Kong co-production, has been selected by the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) to represent Malaysia in the Best International Feature Film category at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars) in 2026.
The film, directed by Chong Keat Aun, follows the story of a social worker helping women facing the hardships and societal stigma of motherhood in Kuala Lumpur. Produced by Janji Pictures Production Sdn Bhd, the movie has already earned critical acclaim at several international film festivals, including winning the Youth Jury Award at the 39th Fribourg International Film Festival 2025 and the Golden Silk Road Award for Best Screenplay at the 12th Silk Road International Film Festival.
These accolades reflect the increasing global recognition of Malaysian cinema. The film has also been showcased at prominent festivals such as the Hong Kong International Film Festival, Istanbul International Film Festival, and New York Asian Film Festival.
According to Finas, the selection of ‘Pavane for an Infant’ demonstrates Malaysia’s growing influence in the global film industry, thanks in part to international film festivals that elevate local productions and bring them to wider audiences.
The film features Fish Liew as Lai Sum, alongside Natalie Hsu, Ben Yuen, and respected Malaysian actors Pearlly Chua, Jasmine Suraya Chin, and Tan Mei Ling.
Finas continues to support and promote local filmmakers, ensuring that Malaysian cinema reaches new heights on the world stage.