Take One: Taiping!
THERE’S something quietly cinematic about Taiping, Perak. Perhaps it’s the rain-soaked streets, the colonial architecture, the mist that drifts over Bukit Larut or simply the slower rhythm of life that sets the town apart.
The third Raintown Film Festival returns to Taiping, Perak, Sept 4 to 6 at Paragon Cinemas, Taiping Mall. This year, the festival expands its scope to include productions filmed across Perak, celebrating the state's growing filmmaking landscape while honoring Taiping's unique charm. Festival founder Jacky Yeap notes that Taiping has transformed from a retirement destination into a lively town, with young residents starting businesses and cultural activities boosting its economy and quality of life.
The festival offers a platform for local filmmakers to connect, exchange ideas and nurture Malaysian film talents. Among the impressive lineup are films like Circus of Life, Tomorrow, Tomorrow, Tomorrow..., Goodbye Boys, and Men Who Save the World. The festival also highlights emerging voices through the 2026 Raintown Short Film Competition.
Beyond the cinema, festival-goers can explore Taiping's history, culture, and natural beauty through guided tours and talks like Island School: The Story of SJK(C) Aik Hua, which showcases the resilience of a small Chinese primary school facing challenges. Supported by West Coast Expressway and local organizations, the festival runs from Sept 4 to 6, offering free admission with tickets available via the CloudJoi platform.
Written by urgent.news from New Straits Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
