PETALING JAYA: “A long time ago, in a galaxy far away…” Even if you have been living under a rock for the past few decades, it is hard not to immediately recognise this iconic phrase.
Ever since the release of “A New Hope” (simply dubbed “Star Wars”) all the way in 1977, George Lucas’ space opera has become a cultural milestone, garnering fans all across the globe.
Older Malaysians might remember that “Star Wars” first arrived in local cinemas in May 1978, a year after its United States release.
Since then, what began as a simple movie of good versus evil has become a multimillion-dollar franchise, spawning films, television shows, video games and, of course, memes. Lots of memes.
Like anywhere else, Malaysia has its fair share of “Star Wars” enthusiasts, and boy, are these folks in for a delightful treat this weekend!
Today and tomorrow, Jaya One in Petaling Jaya, in collaboration with the Star Wars Malaysia Fan Club (SWMFC), will be playing host to a celebration of all that makes this franchise great.
“This Is The May – Nar Shaddaa Day” commemorates this month as “Star Wars” month, and will see the debut of the highly anticipated “Obi-Wan Kenobi” series on Disney+.
‘A sense of belonging’
As fans come from different walks of life, the event reflects their diversity and has a little something for everyone.
“It’s a great joy to all of us in the community to see new young fans, to see their pure joy and excitement to be part of this event,” SWMFC president Sanjiv Indran told FMT.
“That’s why we do these events, for a sense of belonging. The story is timeless and any generation will be able to find a part of it that resonates or connects with them.”
Jaya One marketing representative Jack Moi chimed in, saying it is no accident that the mall has ended up hosting the event.
“One of our directors is an avid ‘Star Wars’ fan, which is how the venture between Jaya One and the SWFMC started,” he revealed.
Moi hopes this celebration would mark a successful resumption of the collaboration, which was last held in 2019 before being put on two-year hiatus because of the pandemic.
Shadow puppets and stormtroopers
With so many activities and shows planned, one might easily be spoilt for choice at what to see or do first.
FMT had the opportunity to attend a top attraction of this event, namely a wayang kulit show that blended together the traditional Malay art with the modern story of “Star Wars”.
Helmed by master puppeteer Tok Dain, the award-winning Fusion Wayang Kulit team put on quite a show with their beautifully designed puppets for an audience of delighted fans.
To see the villainous Darth Vader and his stormtrooper minions in shadow-puppet form was very entertaining, as was the rendition of the “Imperial March”, performed with traditional instruments!
Attendees can also check out the many booths selling all sorts of memorabilia, including toys and artwork. These include official merchandise, the very same that you would normally be able to only get your hands on if you were in the US.
In addition, you simply cannot miss the booth manned by artist Jon Tham, who will sketch a gorgeous caricature of you as a “Star Wars” character in less than five minutes for a small fee of RM10. Alternatively, for RM20, you could ask him to draw anything your heart desires!
For aspiring Instagrammers, don’t hesitate to take photos of yourself posing with costumed fans – just be polite and ask them for permission first.
One of the biggest appeals of the franchise is the iconic lightsaber. Here, you can finally achieve your childhood dream of owning one yourself.
One of the stalls sells beautiful replicas of the futuristic swords, with many models that avid fans would recognise in a heartbeat.
Would you like Darth Maul’s saberstaff? Or does Count Dooku’s curved lightsaber appeal to you? What about Obi-Wan’s trusty weapon, or perhaps Kylo Ren’s sabre with its unique crossguard?
Whichever appeals to you the most, get it at Jaya One complete with their famous coloured plastic blades of red, green, blue, or purple (if you are Samuel L Jackson).
There will also be discussion panels for fans to attend and participate in, as well as musical performances highlighting the films’ iconic soundtrack.
So if you’re a lover of all things “Star Wars”, grab your sabres and jump into hyperspace before 6pm today or between 10am and 6pm tomorrow to reach Jaya One for an unforgettable experience!
Admission to the event is free. Click here for more information, and also check out SWMFC’s Facebook profile.
Jaya One
72A, Jln Profesor Diraja Ungku Aziz,
Seksyen 13,
46200 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
