The Gendang Weekly Digest #1

1. Hanna Alkaf honoured

Malaysian author Hanna Alkaf has been named as one of the winners of the US-based Freeman Book Awards for her debut novel ‘The Weight of Our Sky’, in the Young Adult/High School Literature category. Set against the backdrop of the May 13 riots in Malaysia in 1969, kirkusreviews.com says, “the raw emotion splashed across the pages will resonate deeply, no matter one’s race or religion.” Congrats, Hanna!

2. Malaysian films primed for the US and UK

Eight Malaysian-made films including ‘Mukhsin’, ‘Songlap’, ‘KIL’ and ‘Chow Kit’ are now ready to be streamed by Amazon Prime subscribers in the US and UK. The announcement was made recently made by Primeworks Distribution. A timely shot in the arm for local film producers, indeed.

3. Pasca Sini releases a gem

This pop punk group’s latest, ‘Fake News’ is our new song on repeat!

4. The Ghost Bride lands on Netflix

A Malaysian/Taiwanese production, ‘The Ghost Bride’ is set in 1890s Melaka, and is based on the novel of the same name written by Malaysian writer Yangsze Choo. Influential website, DECIDER, has given a positive verdict, saying: “’The Ghost Bride’ is a fun show that lightens up on the history and leans in on the mystery, with a sprinkle of romance mixed in.” So, stream it already!

5. Shh…Diam! drops new album

Titled ‘To Which My Brother Laughed’, this “original theatre soundtrack” by the punk outfit is raw and relevant to the core, although the songs were first conceived last year. Search for it on Spotify.

6. Play at Rockaway!

Yes, the stage is set for YOU to rock the stage on 15th March with the DR. MARTENS x Rockaway 2020 Band Search. The Top 8 shortlisted bands will be featured on Rockaway Festival Facebook page for public voting between 10 February to 7 March 2020. And the band with the highest combined votes will win a chance to play at Rockaway Fest Main Stage. Click on link for more details: https://t.co/XviHJsq5ne