MARKING a groundbreaking milestone in Malaysian cinema, 'The Story of TARCians' (TSOT) is a heartfelt tribute to the spirit of education, resilience, and unity.
Produced by Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT), the 76-minute documentary is the first full-fledged movie produced by a Malaysian university.
TSOT delves deep into the establishment of Tunku Abdul Rahman College (TARC) during Malaysia's formative years.
The film's narrative unfolds against the backdrop of the 18th Annual General Meeting of the Malaysian Chinese Association (MCA) in 1968.
Here, Tun Tan Siew Sin announced an initiative to create a higher education institution for students who couldn't meet the Malaysian Certificate of Education (MCE) requirements.
This moment of hope became the foundation for what would eventually become TARC.
The movie follows the lives of four main characters — Mei Li (played by Alyssa Lee), Ah Yuen (Chang Shun Yuen), Razali (Ali Arami), and Rama (E. Ramanamohan) — as they embark on a journey to pursue their dreams amidst societal and personal challenges.
Drawing from real historical materials, the plot offers an intimate glimpse into the lives of the first TARC students, showcasing their struggles with poverty, family pressure, and social prejudice.
A BEACON OF HOPE
"No matter how poor, education must not be neglected," is a line of dialogue that serves as the central theme of the film.
Director Mark Lee captures this ethos through stunning cinematography and heartfelt performances.
The emotional journeys of the characters mirror the resilience and determination of countless young Malaysians who have walked through TARC's gates.
According to Lee, the actors were profoundly moved by the stories they portrayed.
"They weren't just acting, they were living the experiences of real youths who fought for a better future," he says.
The film not only commemorates TARC's history but also underscores the transformative power of education and its role in fostering racial harmony and nation-building.
FUSION OF HISTORY AND DRAMA
TSOT masterfully blends documentary realism with engaging storytelling. While grounded in historical accuracy, the film introduces fictionalised elements to enhance its emotional impact.
These creative liberties allow viewers to connect deeply with the characters' journeys.
The multilingual script, featuring Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese, and Tamil, reflects the diversity and inclusivity that TARC embodies.
Interspersed with interviews from alumni who attended TARC in the 1970s and 1980s, the film provides a layered perspective on the institution's impact.
These firsthand accounts reveal the challenges and triumphs of pursuing education during a time when opportunities were scarce.
A COLLABORATIVE TRIUMPH
The production of TSOT represents a unified effort involving TAR UMT's alumni, faculty, and industry partners.
Executive Producer Prof. Datuk Indera Ir Dr Lee Sze Wei, President of TAR UMT, played a pivotal role in steering the project.
Alumni Council Chairman Tan Sri Chan Kong Choy also championed the initiative, underscoring its significance as a labour of love and tribute to education.
The film's creation was made possible through TAR UMT's internal research grants and sponsorships from the TAR UMT Alumni Council.
Industry partners like Big Foot Entertainment and Mega Films Distribution joined forces with TAR UMT's Faculty of Communication and Creative Industries (FCCI) to bring the vision to life.
The collaborative spirit extended to TAR UMT students, who organised promotional campaigns as part of their hands-on learning experience.
A LEGACY FOR FUTURE GENERATIONS
Beyond its cinematic appeal, 'The Story of TARCians' aims to preserve and celebrate TARC's legacy.
By sharing this story, TAR UMT hopes to inspire future generations to appreciate the value of education and the sacrifices made by those who came before.
Director Lee's meticulous research and dedication to authenticity shine through in every frame.
His interviews with alumni, faculty, and students ensured that the film remained true to its roots while delivering a powerful emotional punch.
TSOT is a movie for everyone. Whether you're a TARC alumnus, a student, or someone entirely unfamiliar with the institution, the film's universal themes of hope and resilience will resonate deeply.
Educational and heartwarming, the movie is a testament to the power of education and a great watch for anyone seeking inspiration in these challenging times.
TSOT is currently screening in cinemas nationwide.