Known as the “Flying Sikh”, our very own Malaysian rally legend Karamjit Singh will soon be featured not just on dirt trails, but on the silver screens too. Dubbed “Terbang”, the movie inspired by Karamjit’s life story is set to hit theatres during next year’s Merdeka celebrations.
Racing professionally since 1985, Karamjit Singh became the first Malaysian to win an FIA-sanctioned international rally world title, and even more impressively, doing so on his very first try. Some of his most decorated titles include: the 2001 Asia Pacific Rally Championship, the 2002 FIA Production Car World Championship, and the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championships in 2002 and 2004.
At 63, Karamjit continues to tear up rally stages across the region, recently clinching victory in the opening round of the Malaysia Rally Championship (MRC) in a Proton Gen 2. Speaking of which, he has also piloted other rally icons over the years such as the Mitsubishi Lancer Evo 4, Subaru Impreza WRX STi, and of course, the Proton Satria Neo.
According to a report by Malay Mail, the film will be produced by two collaborating Malaysian production houses, Astro Shaw and Woohoo Pictures. It will be directed by Chiu Keng Guan — a renowned filmmaker known for other works such as The Journey (2014) and Ola Bola (2016).
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Director Chiu said, “I wouldn’t say it’s a biopic, but it’s inspired by real events — something like Ola Bola. This story means a lot to Malaysians, and we want to share it with the whole country.” The report added that the film seeks to revive memories of Malaysia’s golden era of rallying while celebrating the national legend who put the country on the world map.
As for who will portray Karamjit, the honour goes to Irfan Zaini, who will play ‘Ajeet’, a character inspired by the rally legend himself. Reflecting on the role, Irfan said, “I never imagined I’d get a role about a legend like Karamjit.”
“I feel it’s a huge responsibility because I’m representing someone truly unique — a legend who made history in Malaysia,” he added.
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Executive producer and Head of Astro Shaw, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, said, “We believe the story of an icon like Karamjit Singh, fondly known as the ‘Flying Sikh’, deserves to be immortalised on the big screen. His historic victory at the 2001 FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship was not only a proud achievement but also a defining moment that placed Malaysia firmly on the world stage.
“With Terbang, we hope to deliver not only adrenaline-pumping rally action but also to inspire pride and confidence in the belief that Malaysian films can stand tall as globally compelling stories, while staying true to their local soul,” she added.
Aside from Irfan, the film will also star a heavyweight cast, including Zizan Razak and Jack Tan.
