We’re all well-versed with Disney and Pixar when it comes to producing stunning animations. But did you know that you don’t have to look far to find animated productions that are just as amazing?

These homegrown animated shorts and films aren’t just impressive for their visuals and effects, they also tug at your heartstrings and cause you to double over with laughter. Here are 5 amazing Malaysian animations you don’t want to miss. 

#1. Ejen Ali

Imagine being a normal kid who’s accidentally recruited as a spy. Now, your life is turned upside down and is filled with thrill, danger and excitement. That’s what you’re signing up to see when you decide to give this Malaysian animated series a chance.

This CG-animated series has an indescribable amount of intricacy. The textures of hair, skin, and clothes are so detailed that you won’t be surprised to find out that it was crowned the Malaysia Winner in the ‘Best 3D Animated Programme or Series’ category of the Asian Academy Creative Awards (AAA).

What’s more, Ejen Ali: The Movie is the 2nd highest-grossing animated film of all time in Malaysia, bested only by Frozen II and surpassing the likes of Toy Story 4, How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World and even Frozen. 

#2. BoBoiBoy Movie 2

Peek into the life of a boy brimming with life and elemental superpowers who works together with his friends to stop aliens from conquering Earth — doesn’t hearing that alone give you the impression of a blockbuster already? 

BoBoiBoy Movie 2, the sequel to the first movie, BoBoiBoy: The Movie,  brings you on an adventure to stop an ancient evil threatening to tip the odds of good and evil. If you’re a fan of Marvel and DC, you’ll surely be drawn to this Malaysian superhero movie. 

The movie is not only recognised locally (it’s the 3rd highest-grossing animated film of all time in Malaysia) but also garnered international recognition when it bagged 2 awards at the Laurus Film Festival in Russia, defeating other movies from Australia, UK and Brazil.

#3. Upin & Ipin: Keris Siamang Tunggal

If you’ve grown up watching TV9, you’re sure to be familiar with the animated television series, Upin & Ipin. This childhood cartoon that brings you hilarious tales of everyday adventures has been with us since 2007. 

The 2019 movie Upin & Ipin: Keris Siamang Tunggal follows the quest of the twins and their friends in the fantastical kingdom. Prepare to be blown away by the scale of production quality.

A hit in the local scene, the film became the second-highest grossing local animation film of all time when it was released. It also won several awards, including the Best Feature Film at the 2019 Montreal International Animation Film Festival as well as the Golden Wing Award for Best Animation Of The Year category at the Animation Game Industry Annual Conference & Anime Beijing Awards 2019.

#4. Batik Girl

With a simplistic yet beautiful 2D animation style, this 9-minute short film will give you a touch of nostalgia and transport you to the times of balik kampung. 

Batik Girl tells the story of a young girl who is drawn into the magical world of batik painting while struggling to cope with a tragedy. Featuring themes of family, love and loss, it’s a story that viewers all across the world can relate to. 

After it was shown at 26 film festivals around the world, it went on to win a slew of awards, including best short animated film at Festival de Largos y Cortos de Santiago in Chile, the Gold Medal in the Regional category at the 20th Digicon6 Asia in Japan and the Honourable Mention in the Audience Favourites award at the Florida Animation Festival.

If you haven’t seen it yet, you can watch it here on YouTube.

#5. AstroLOLogy

The twelve astrological signs are no doubt a popular way to understand your personality traits and characteristics. Now, personify these zodiac signs and boom! You get an interesting stage set up for a hilarious comedy series to play out. 

AstroLOLogy is a Malaysian web comedy series that has found a way to capture the world’s attention, especially in the US. No matter when you are born, your personified zodiac character will definitely keep your eyes glued to the screen.

Even if you aren’t familiar with astrological signs, you won’t be able to resist wanting to know what happens next to the zodiac character you relate to. The series has been such a major success that it bagged eight international awards for being the best web/animation series and best children’s film.

As much as western animation blows you away, these Malaysian animated films deserve some time in the spotlight. Go give them the credit they deserve by watching their work!

Fascinated by the world of animation? Check out how you can pursue a career digital animation in our course guide here.