A community event transformed a jetty near a mussel farm in Sungai Balang Laut, Muar, Johor, into an open-air cinema on the evening of September 18, attracting around 130 residents to watch the Malaysian historical film *Bukit Kepong*. The turnout surpassed organisers’ expectations, which had anticipated about 50 attendees.

The outdoor screening, part of a “Wayang Pacak” series, took place at Laman Kupang by the water and provided families an opportunity to gather over food and conversation. The film, which depicts the 1950 Bukit Kepong tragedy, was selected collectively by the community to coincide with Malaysia Day commemorations.

For some attendees, the event evoked nostalgia for a time when watching films outdoors was a common family activity. For younger viewers, it offered an immersive way to engage with national history in a communal setting surrounded by nature.

The initiative was spearheaded by Kamariah Shakirin Mustafa, founder of YouthLabs Social Hub and granddaughter of Malaysia’s former deputy prime minister Tun Dr Ismail Abdul Rahman. Kamariah worked with local residents in choosing the film and creating the event, aiming to make historical education more accessible outside the classroom.

“We learn about history in school, but I wanted the children to experience it in a different way – with their families and neighbours and seeing these stories come alive,” Kamariah said. She emphasized that Malaysia Day serves as a moment to reflect on the nation’s past and the contributions of earlier generations.

The event was a collaborative effort involving the Mukim Sungai Balang chief, Muar Information Office, Village Development and Security Committee Sungai Gersik, Persatuan Nelayan Sungai Balang Laut, Ruang Daya Cipta (a local social innovation hub), and the wider community. The Muar Information Office sponsored the screening and provided technical equipment including the projector, screen, and speakers.

Attendees shared a meal of barbecued fish, mussels, chicken, and homemade dishes, while enjoying the film under the stars. A lucky draw was also held as part of the festivities.

Kamariah described the “Wayang Pacak” concept as a response to the absence of cinemas in Muar. “So I thought why not bring the cinema to the community?” she said, adding that the idea was inspired by her own journey to reconnect with her family’s heritage in Muar.

“Muar has so many spaces that already belong to the community. We do not always need to build something new. Sometimes we just need to look at what we have and bring people together around it,” Kamariah noted.

This screening was the first installment under the “Muo for Muar” series, a platform created by Kamariah to showcase Muar’s heritage, people, and stories. Future “Wayang Pacak” screenings are planned across various communities and locations within the district, each designed in collaboration with local residents and utilizing distinctive community spaces.

The “Wayang Pacak” series complements YouthLabs Social Hub’s broader efforts in youth empowerment, civic engagement, and fostering community initiatives throughout the region.