Spilling the Real Tea: What Malaysia’s Politicians Can Learn from the 2024 Deepavali Short Films

By The Malketeer

Politicians Must Look at these Campaigns as Guiding Light, that True Power Lies Not in Divisiveness But in Compassion and Solidarity

As Malaysians celebrate the Festival of Lights, it’s brands—NOT politicians—that are illuminating the path to a more unified, compassionate, progressive and joyful Malaysia.

The 2024 Deepavali campaigns from leading Malaysian companies offer not just moments of festive cheer but a refreshing lesson in values our political landscape sorely lacks.

When even Boh Tea outshines parliament in uniting the rakyat, it’s time for a serious reality check.

Boh Tea’s “Soap Opera” Sips on Truths About Family and Togetherness

Boh Tea’s “Tea-pavali” captures the quintessential Malaysian family gathering through a nostalgic soap-opera-inspired film, encouraging Malaysians to sip slowly and appreciate the simple joys of togetherness.

As our leaders fuel polarisation, Boh Tea’s playful yet profound message invites citizens to reconnect over shared moments, proving that gratitude and unity are just a cup away.

Only if our politicians took a pause to appreciate those they serve—like Malaysians do over a cup of teh-tarik —we might just see a gentler, more genuine form of governance.

Lessons in Empathy and Resilience

Take Maybank’s four-minute masterpiece on Coach Jeganathan, aka “Jega the Lighthouse.”

This heartfelt tribute shines a spotlight on a man who’s brought international glory to Malaysia by training athletes with disabilities—an often forgotten figure who’s been a steady “light” for those on the margins.

Compare this to politicians who prefer grandstanding to service, and the lesson is stark: : ”real leadership isn’t loud, divisive, or self-serving; it’s silent, resilient, and inclusive.”

Meanwhile, MCIS Life spotlights the “Guard Uncle” Balan, a security guard whose joyful dance moves brought smiles to Malaysian schoolchildren and adults alike.

With just a dash of humour and a lot of heart, the brand reminds us that simple acts of kindness create deeper, more meaningful bonds than the vitriol too often served by leaders.

Embracing Diversity, Celebrating Tradition

Khazanah Nasional’s “Like Father, Like Daughter” film, the art of saree tailoring is a powerful metaphor for the love and traditions that pass through generations.

These tales, steeped in culture and familial respect, remind Malaysians that legacy and love matter far more than the fleeting gains of divisive politics.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yHRDlmh9SU

Compassion Over Contention

Astro’s “Marupakkam” and Petronas’ “Shine Together” highlight values that our some of elected officials seem to have forgotten.

“Marupakkam” (The Other Side) serves as a much-needed caution against snap judgments in an age of clickbait and quick outrage.

With humour and wisdom, it teaches us that approaching one another with empathy builds lasting bridges—something many politicians could afford to learn.

Petronas’ “Shine Together” further amplifies the message of encouragement across boundaries, depicting a young dancer overcoming fear to perform a classical Indian dance.

The film subtly yet powerfully reminds us that our greatest strides come when we uplift each other, irrespective of our differences.

From Stereotypes to Satire

Vinoth Raj Pillai and Your Maker Creative Agency’s viral “APPUNENE” mockumentary injects humour and heart into the discussion of racial stereotypes, offering a sharp critique on misconceptions.

This film dismantles the “Ah Pu Neh Neh” stereotype with wit and warmth, showing that intercultural understanding isn’t a topic to be weaponised; it’s an opportunity to learn and laugh together.

Malaysian politics, often marred by crude caricatures of communities, could take notes on how satire—handled with care and respect—can do far more to bridge divides than any polarising debate.

Let the Festive Light Lead the Way  

This Deepavali, Malaysian brands have shown that compassion, empathy, and unity are not only possible but deeply desired by the rakyat.

While politicians often sow distrust and division, the narratives in these campaigns resonate with the true spirit of Malaysia—a spirit that values togetherness, shared heritage, and mutual respect.

In the coming days, as lights continually illuminate homes and communities, perhaps Malaysia’s politicians could look at these campaigns as a guiding light, a reminder that true power lies not in divisiveness but in compassion and solidarity.

The rakyat is, and has  always, been ready for a Malaysia that embodies the joy and unity seen in these stories.

Sadly, it’s our politicians who are in dire need of  a strong dose of soul-searching.