VETERAN filmmaker and producer, Datuk Yusof Haslam, has expressed his pride in Sarawak-born director, Ghazali Jeman – better known as Jalot Jeman – who is set to make his cinematic debut with ‘Tumbukan Emas Sapok Biki’.
The film, which pays tribute to legendary Sarawakian boxer, Sapok Biki, marks Jalot’s first foray into the world of feature films – and Yusof could not be happier to see someone from outside Kuala Lumpur breaking into the mainstream industry.
In a recent casual meet-up over a meal, the seasoned director took the opportunity to offer heartfelt advice and encouragement to the young filmmaker.
“I’ve known Jalot for more than 10 years, and I’m incredibly proud to see him producing a film for the big screen.
“It’s no easy feat becoming a film director, especially when you’re not based in the heart of the industry like Kuala Lumpur,” he said.
Among Yusof’s key pieces of advice: never give up, no matter how tough the journey gets.
“This industry is full of challenges. Only with strong determination can you go far,” he added.
He also reminded Jalot that a film’s success at the box office does not lie in the hands of critics or social media users.
“There are films with massive promotional budgets that still don’t do well, and others with hardly any promotion that become hits. At the end of the day, that’s God’s will,” Yusof said.
He acknowledged that filmmaking is a tough road – full of hurdles and stiff competition, especially with more titles hitting cinemas each year.
“Don’t pull the handbrake halfway. If you’ve started the journey, keep going. Not everyone is cut out to be a director – so own that role proudly,” he advised.
He also encouraged Jalot not to stress over box office figures too much, pointing out that films today have a longer shelf life thanks to Over-The-Top (OTT) platforms like local television, Netflix, and VIU.
Still, he cautioned against ignoring promotions, highlighting the power of social media as the fastest and most effective platform for publicity.
“There’s no magic formula for a hit. Even with massive marketing, things may not turn out as expected. Luck still plays a big role,” he said.
Yusof also advised the Sarawak-born director to keep his expectations realistic to avoid disappointment.
“Don’t pin all your hopes on box office returns. When expectations aren’t met, it can be disheartening. Even I didn’t set high targets for ‘Blood Brothers’, just to avoid that letdown,” he pointed out.
He also encouraged Jalot to continue making dramas and telefilms, which he described as important sources of income in the industry.
“Film and TV are two different worlds, but both are essential for the survival of many people behind the scenes – people who rely on directors like Jalot for work,” Yusof stressed.
For Jalot, the meeting was a meaningful and inspiring one.
“It was a relaxed conversation over good food, but I walked away with so much,” he said.
Jalot recalled first meeting Yusof about a decade ago while working as part of the crew – and occasionally acting – for Viper Studio, a company owned by Yusof’s son, Shafiq, who was just starting out back then.
He believes ‘Tumbukan Emas Sapok Biki’ is shaping up to be one of the most exciting local films of the year.
Not only does it highlight an iconic Sarawakian figure, but it also features a strong local flavour that sets it apart.
“We’re currently in the final stages – doing the music and colour grading.
“To all Malaysians, especially my fellow Sarawakians – do watch ‘Tumbukan Emas Sapok Biki’ when it hits cinemas.
“It’s a story about what it means to rise, to achieve something great, and to make history for Malaysia,” Jalot said.
