PNB Merdeka Ventures Launches First Merdeka Film ‘Gapai’
KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 24 (Bernama) -- Permodalan Nasional Bhd’s (PNB) wholly owned subsidiary, PNB Merdeka Ventures Sdn Bhd (PNBMV), has launched its first-ever Merdeka film, GAPAI, in conjunction with the Merdeka celebrations to commemorate and honour the spirit of independence.
In a statement today, PNBMV said the three-minute film, produced by local Malaysian production house Twentyoneseventeen and PNBMV’s local creative agency M&C Saatchi Karsa Malaysia, was inspired by the country’s first Prime Minister, Tunku Abdul Rahman Putra Al-Haj, and his iconic raised hand during the Proclamation of Independence in 1957.
Following its exclusive premiere, GAPAI will be released to the public on Aug 25 across Merdeka 118’s official social media channels.
“Through the lives and everyday experiences of Malaysians, the film reimagines one of the nation's most iconic moments, reminding us that the values of Merdeka continue to shape who we are today. The story culminates at the Merdeka 118 precinct and brings together the nation's rich history and its aspirations for the future,” the statement said.
PNBMV’s chief executive officer Datuk Izwan Hasli Mohd Ibrahim said GAPAI reflects the philosophy that guides everything the company does.
“As the custodian of the nation's most significant heritage, we have a responsibility not only to preserve our history, but to ensure it continues to inspire future generations.
“The Merdeka 118 precinct stands on the very ground where Malaysia's independence was declared, and we want every visit here to be a reminder of where we came from and how far we have come,” he said.
He said GAPAI reflects the philosophy that guides everything the company does. While it continues to reach for greater heights and aspire to build a world-class precinct, the company remains rooted in the community that defines the place.
PNBMV said the Merdeka 118 precinct is collaborating with cultural and creative social enterprise LOCCO to present a three-day Merdeka celebration from Aug 29-31 at Stadium Merdeka and Merdeka Boulevard.
The programme will feature a Merdeka Community Bazaar, cultural and heritage activities, and a Merdeka Flashmob and WarisanKL Explorace with engaging experiences across the precinct.
Visitors can also explore the latest attractions at the Merdeka 118 precinct, including Look at 118, a ground-level viewing deck offering a unique perspective of Malaysia’s tallest tower, and Makan Makan Peranakan by the Serai Group, set against the backdrop of the iconic tower.
The newly opened Merdeka Textile Museum (MTM), which showcases the rich heritage of Malay World textiles, will also be open throughout the Merdeka weekend along with its gift shop, MTM Shop, with free admission from Aug 22 to Sept 30, 2026.
For more information on Merdeka Month attractions at the Merdeka 118 precinct, visit www.merdeka118.com and follow @merdeka118 on Instagram and X platforms for the latest updates.
-- BERNAMA