FTA652

This course is designed to provide hands-on exposure to the creative industry, allowing students to transition from classroom learning to real-world application. Over 16 weeks, I will document my experiences in a weekly journal, reflecting on the challenges faced, skills developed, and insights gained as I navigate the industry’s demands.

Under the guidance of professionals, I will sharpen my leadership, problem-solving, and adaptability skills while contributing to meaningful projects. This course is not just about learning—it’s about experiencing the industry firsthand, building connections, and strengthening my foundation for a future career in filmmaking.

Stepping into Radius One Sdn Bhd for my internship, I officially reported to the producers and directors, receiving a comprehensive briefing on my role within the Production Media Team for both upcoming and ongoing projects. My first major task was preparing for talent casting for the highly anticipated drama series "Seribu Tahun", directed by the esteemed Shahrulezad Mohameddin. Beyond logistics, I took on a hands-on approach by filming audition scenes as if they were real takes, ensuring the production team could envision the final outcome. Additionally, I designed an official casting poster, enhancing the visual appeal of the recruitment process.

Continuing with the casting process, I took charge of documenting the second and third rounds of auditions, ensuring each moment was carefully captured on camera. These sessions were vital in highlighting the raw potential and emotional range of the shortlisted talents, and I made sure to frame each performance in a way that could be revisited and evaluated with clarity. The atmosphere during these rounds was intense yet inspiring—seeing actors push their limits and directors deliberate on choices gave me a deeper appreciation of the casting journey.

By midweek, my responsibilities shifted gears as I transitioned from the audition room to the buzzing film set of “Berbahagi Suami”, a highly anticipated drama helmed by director Uchee Fukada. Here, I took on the role of behind-the-scenes (BTS) content creator, tasked with photographing and filming key moments on set. From candid cast interactions to meticulous production setups, I focused on capturing the essence of the filmmaking process—both its chaos and its beauty.

One of the most rewarding assignments during this period was being entrusted with recording an exclusive interview and content session with the lead cast members—Amar Baharin, Siti Elizad, and Sharifah Husna. This involved setting up and conducting the interview, curating questions that would bring out not only their thoughts on the drama but also their chemistry and personal insights. The content I produced from these sessions was later crafted into dynamic promotional material that aimed to reflect the tone and emotional depth of the series, contributing to the build-up of excitement among fans and audiences.

Overall, this experience strengthened my understanding of professional set dynamics, sharpened my skills in content production, and deepened my ability to work collaboratively under the pressures of real-time filmmaking.

Shifting gears, I transitioned into the post-production phase with a focus on refining and shaping the raw interview footage into compelling, platform-ready content. This involved meticulously editing multiple interview angles, optimizing sound design, and ensuring that each cut resonated with the promotional tone required for social media engagement. I worked closely with the production and marketing teams to tailor each clip to suit different platforms such as Instagram Reels, TikTok, and YouTube Shorts—ensuring that the final outputs were not only polished but also strategically timed for release alongside the airing schedule of the drama.

In the same week, I had the opportunity to attend the final pre-production meeting for the upcoming drama series, Seribu Tahun. Sitting alongside experienced creatives and heads of departments, I observed the depth of planning that goes into the visual storytelling process, from concept to final script breakdown. I was honored to be invited to contribute ideas and notes for Episode 5—my first hands-on experience in the narrative development phase. This involvement allowed me to understand character arcs, pacing, and dialogue structure on a deeper level, while also building confidence in voicing creative input within a professional setting. It marked a significant step in my growth as both a filmmaker and storyteller.

Production for Seribu Tahun officially kicked off, and I was right in the heart of the action—stationed on set with my camera, capturing dynamic behind-the-scenes (BTS) moments that documented the magic of filmmaking as it unfolded. From candid actor prep sessions to the intensity of key scenes being shot, I focused on crafting a visual archive that not only served as internal documentation but also fed into our promotional efforts. Beyond snapping stills, I shot video coverage that highlighted the crew’s hard work, the energy on set, and the artistry behind each frame.

To amplify audience connection and build hype around the production, I took the lead in curating and editing weekly BTS video content specifically tailored for social media platforms. This meant weaving together footage with intentional pacing, selecting engaging moments, adding subtitles, and syncing cuts to trending audio—all to ensure our followers stayed hooked and connected with the journey of Seribu Tahun even before it aired.

One of the most thrilling parts of the week was getting my hands on the DJI Mini 2 drone for the first time. Under supervision, I learned how to pilot it safely and confidently, capturing smooth, sweeping aerial shots of the set environment. This new skill added a fresh dimension to my visual storytelling toolkit, and marked a memorable milestone in my internship—my first flight into aerial cinematography.

My role on Seribu Tahun expanded even further when production shifted to a new location in Hulu Langat. Once again, I was entrusted with handling the BTS (behind-the-scenes) coverage—but this time, with deeper creative freedom and a clearer sense of the visual tone we wanted to establish. The lush, rustic backdrop of Hulu Langat offered a new layer of visual texture to the footage I captured, making every candid crew moment and dramatic camera setup feel even more cinematic. I became more confident in anticipating key moments, blending into the environment to capture the raw, authentic energy of the set without disrupting the workflow.

Another highlight of this leg of production was the opportunity to operate the DJI Mini 2 drone once again. Having familiarized myself with its controls during earlier shoots, I was now able to fly with greater confidence and precision. I experimented with angles and movements, pushing my creative instincts to get more dynamic and storytelling-rich aerial shots—whether it was sweeping over the set during golden hour or capturing isolated character movement from above. Each flight became not only a technical exercise but a chance to contribute something visually unique to the production’s archive.

One of my proudest moments during this phase was when I was assigned to do a portrait photoshoot of the character Dato’ Norish. The task wasn’t just about capturing a flattering image—it had to convey the stature, personality, and legacy of the character within the story. I carefully considered lighting, composition, and wardrobe cues to align the portrait with the tone of the drama. The final image was selected to be enlarged and professionally printed as a framed prop, which would appear in the set design as a symbolic presence of Dato’ Norish in key scenes. Seeing my work integrated directly into the storytelling in such a tangible way was incredibly rewarding, and affirmed how visual artistry—no matter how subtle—can leave a lasting impression on-screen.

This week brought me back to the elegant setting of The Fleur, TTDI, for the continuing production of “Berbahagi Suami”. What unfolded on set was nothing short of extraordinary—a rare and ambitious production setup where the entire crew was split into two units operating simultaneously within the same location. Uchee Fukada retained command as the main director for Team A, while the talented Nizam Zakaria took the helm for Team B. This dual-director arrangement is an uncommon practice in Malaysian television production, presenting a complex but fascinating dynamic of coordination, timing, and creative vision.

Sensing the significance of this moment, I took the initiative to conceptualize and produce a special behind-the-scenes content piece that highlighted the uniqueness of the day’s workflow. I documented both teams in action, capturing how they navigated the logistical challenges and maintained artistic cohesion while sharing space, cast, and resources. From candid crew moments to cross-team interactions, the footage was crafted to not only inform but to celebrate the teamwork and ingenuity behind the scenes—offering audiences a rare peek into an ambitious production method rarely seen in our industry.

BTS production continued for “Seribu Tahun”, this time at one of the drama’s key sponsored locations—KPJ Kajang. Filming in an actual hospital setting added a layer of realism and professionalism to the project, and I ensured the behind-the-scenes content reflected that atmosphere, capturing the careful choreography between the medical staff, crew, and cast members. This setting not only lent authenticity to the scenes but also challenged the team to work within strict real-world constraints, from lighting to sound control in a functioning medical facility.

In the following days, our journey took us from the clinical halls of KPJ to the warm, lived-in ambiance of a spacious bungalow in Sungai Buloh, where domestic scenes were filmed. Here, I documented the transformation of everyday spaces into cinematic frames, and how the production team adapted the house’s natural layout to serve the script’s emotional beats.

Eventually, we moved deeper into the serene surroundings of Langat, where I had the opportunity to conduct a portrait photoshoot for one of the characters. These images were not just promotional—they were integral to the story, destined to become framed props that would appear within the scenes themselves. With attention to lighting, character styling, and emotion, I captured portraits that felt both narrative and authentic. Seeing my photography integrated into the visual storytelling of the drama—literally framed within the frame—was a deeply fulfilling creative milestone.

Filming for “Seribu Tahun” continued in the lush, scenic surroundings of Langat, where I once again had the opportunity to operate the drone for a series of aerial shots. With each flight, I aimed to capture the emotional tone of the scenes from above—whether it was the isolation of a character, the vastness of the landscape, or simply the mood of the story unfolding beneath the treetops. The natural terrain, with its winding roads and greenery, offered cinematic possibilities that elevated the visual language of the drama, and being entrusted with that responsibility was something I didn’t take lightly.

Later in the week, production shifted to a more refined, elegant atmosphere at Hotel B-Sarang, right in the heart of Kuala Lumpur. The setting was distinct in tone from Langat, offering modern architecture, warm lighting, and carefully designed interiors that served as the backdrop for some of the drama’s more emotionally intimate and stylish sequences. As always, I was there to document every detail behind the scenes—moments of preparation, candid interactions, and the silent focus just before “Action” was called.

Capturing BTS content in such a sophisticated location challenged me to think more like a visual storyteller than just a documentarian. I focused on light, framing, and composition, ensuring the final visuals matched the premium tone of the project. Each location brought its own mood and energy—and blending those moments into a coherent behind-the-scenes narrative became my mission for the week.

One of my most memorable and fulfilling weeks during the production of “Seribu Tahun” unfolded with a beautiful blend of behind-the-scenes work and personal milestones. In addition to my usual role as the BTS photographer, I was entrusted with conducting a special wedding portrait photoshoot for the series’ lead characters—Imaan, portrayed by the stunning Emma Maembong, and Dr. Zahar, played by the charismatic Nazrief Nazri. The shoot was designed to be both elegant and emotionally rich, capturing the essence of their on-screen love story. From soft, romantic lighting to the delicate arrangement of poses, I aimed to reflect the depth of their characters’ relationship in each frame, knowing these portraits would later be used as framed props within the drama itself.

Beyond the camera, I also found myself unexpectedly stepping into the frame—this time as an extra in the actual wedding scene. I was cast as the groom’s best man, complete with suit and all, standing right beside Dr. Zahar as he waited for his bride. It was a surreal moment—transitioning from documenting actors to becoming part of the narrative itself. Though it was a small role, it meant a lot to me. It was my first time appearing on-screen in a drama production of this scale, and it added a new layer of connection to the project I had already grown so invested in.

Balancing both the visual storytelling behind the scenes and the brief on-screen performance gave me a fresh appreciation for the many moving parts of a production. It reminded me why I fell in love with filmmaking in the first place—every frame, every face, every moment has a story to tell. And that week, I had the rare privilege of telling those stories from both sides of the lens.

A significant milestone unfolded this week for “Berbahagi Suami” as the production team hosted a high-profile media gathering and panel discussion centered around the core theme of the drama—polygamy. The event was thoughtfully designed to open up a broader public dialogue on the complexities, perceptions, and realities of polygamous relationships, bringing depth to the narrative explored in the series. One of the key speakers was Dr. Shazif, an expert in family and relationship studies, who provided valuable insights from a sociocultural and psychological perspective. His presence elevated the discussion, offering a well-rounded understanding that complemented the show’s bold storytelling approach.

As part of the production team, I was assigned to document the event in its entirety, ensuring that all the key moments—panel highlights, crowd reactions, candid interactions, and media coverage—were captured with clarity and emotional impact. The energy in the room was palpable, especially with the presence of major media outlets such as Astro, Oh My Media, Melodi, and Huzz, all covering the discussion for their respective platforms. From setting up the shot list to adjusting for dynamic lighting and movement during the session, I worked with intention to ensure the content would be usable for both promotional and archival purposes.

The event served as a bridge between fiction and reality—allowing audiences, journalists, and industry professionals to engage with the drama on a deeper level. Capturing those moments gave me a unique behind-the-scenes view of how media and storytelling intersect to spark conversation, and I felt proud to contribute to a project that isn’t afraid to challenge societal norms and provoke thought.

Filming for “Berbahagi Suami” continued this week at the upscale Wyndham Hotel, located along Jalan Klang Lama. The hotel’s elegant architecture and polished interiors provided a fitting backdrop for the drama’s more refined and emotionally charged scenes. As always, I was on set to document the behind-the-scenes process—capturing the crew’s meticulous setup, lighting transitions, and the cast’s preparations between takes. The atmosphere was focused yet energetic, as every department worked seamlessly to bring the director’s vision to life in a space that balanced luxury with storytelling depth.

Later in the week, I had the opportunity to step outside the filming environment and into the world of live television promotion. I was invited to join the cast during their appearance on the popular entertainment show Meletop, broadcasted from the Astro studios in Bukit Jalil. The segment featured lead actors Siti Elizad, Amar Baharin, and Sharifah Husna as they promoted “Berbahagi Suami”, sharing insights, laughter, and behind-the-scenes anecdotes with the hosts and audience.

My role was to document the full experience—capturing key moments from the green room preparations, media interviews, and candid interactions between the cast, all the way to their appearance on set under the studio lights. The energy was electric, and seeing the excitement from fans and media alike reminded me how impactful our work behind the camera can become once it reaches the public eye. Being able to preserve those moments through my lens, both on set and on stage, was an incredibly rewarding extension of my role in the production.

This week’s focus centered on continuing BTS coverage for “Seribu Tahun”, with filming taking place at a meticulously constructed mock-up hospital set located in Kajang. The location was designed to replicate a real medical environment, complete with examination rooms, waiting areas, and emergency corridors—allowing for controlled shooting conditions while maintaining authenticity on screen. My task was to capture the behind-the-scenes activity throughout the production day, documenting the subtle interactions between cast and crew, as well as the intense emotional performances unfolding in this high-stakes setting.

Navigating the tight, clinical spaces of the set presented a unique challenge for BTS photography and videography. I had to be especially mindful of angles and movement, ensuring I captured moments without disrupting the flow of production. From close-ups of makeup retouches to wide shots of the lighting team working their magic, every frame aimed to reflect the professionalism and effort poured into each scene.

The latter part of the week shifted pace, as I returned to the production office for an extended editing session. This phase was crucial—organizing raw BTS footage, selecting the most compelling visuals, and shaping them into polished content for social media and internal archives. Working in post-production allowed me to reflect on the footage with fresh eyes and tell a visual story that complemented the drama’s tone. These quiet hours behind the screen were just as important as the on-set work, reminding me that storytelling doesn’t stop when the camera cuts—it continues in the edit room, frame by frame.

The second last month of my internship unfolded with a meaningful blend of beauty, closure, and new beginnings. BTS production for “Berbahagi Suami” continued at the serene and picturesque Bukit Tinggi Resort—an ideal location to capture the emotional weight and scenic elegance of the drama’s final scenes. Surrounded by lush greenery, misty hills, and charming colonial-style architecture, the setting elevated the production’s visual storytelling. My focus was to document these powerful concluding moments through behind-the-scenes photography and video, highlighting not just the cast’s performances, but also the quiet intensity and camaraderie shared by the crew as they brought this chapter to a close. The mood was both celebratory and sentimental, knowing the series was wrapping after months of effort, creativity, and collaboration.

My internship concluded with an exclusive opportunity to sit in on a high-level pre-production meeting held at Astro Bukit Jalil for an upcoming Radius One drama, “Dia Bukan Syurga”. The meeting brought together an inspiring assembly of industry veterans: executive producers Fazli and Hisham, acclaimed director Rashid Sibir, and key representatives from Astro’s drama department. Discussions were rich with vision and strategy—script development, casting considerations, production logistics, and narrative tone were all laid on the table with clarity and passion. With filming scheduled to begin on March 1, 2025, and a television premiere already planned for May, it was exhilarating to witness the seeds of a new creative journey being planted.

For me, this moment felt symbolic. From capturing the final frames of one production to witnessing the birth of another, I stood at the intersection of storytelling’s cyclical nature—where endings feed new beginnings. It was the perfect note to conclude my internship: not with a farewell, but with the promise of more stories to tell, more sets to step onto, and more frames to fill with purpose. I left feeling more prepared, inspired, and committed to the world I’ve grown to love—one that lives behind the lens but speaks directly to the heart.