Rise: Ini Kalilah

The events unfold around the Malaysian general election of 2018, culminating on May 9, 2018. It follows multiple interwoven storylines in the weeks leading up to the vote, capturing the political climate, activism, and media coverage of the period. The time frame reflects a pivotal moment in Malaysia's democratic history.

Primarily set in Malaysia during the 2018 general election, with key scenes at polling stations, campaign venues, and Istana Negara. The narrative also presents sequences in Singapore and in the United Kingdom to show cross-border dimensions of political participation. The film builds toward election day, highlighting the stakes of democratic participation and public response to change.

🗳️ Election integrity

The film foregrounds the integrity of the election process, illustrating attempts at election manipulation and voter intimidation. It shows posters vandalised and vote tampering investigations, with ordinary people pushing back for fair results. The climax involves a confrontation over stolen ballot boxes and last-minute votes, underscoring the need for transparency and accountability.

🧭 Moral courage

Characters confront corruption and make difficult choices between personal safety and the public good. Corporal Azman rejects bribery and risks his career to stand with the people, while Shanti champions fair voting and resilience against tradition. The narrative celebrates individuals who act with integrity in the face of systemic pressure.

📰 Media and transparency

Journalists Marcus and June document the election, highlighting the power and risk of reporting in a charged political environment. The film uses on-the-ground coverage and stock footage of the actual 2018 election to anchor its realism. It argues that media scrutiny can drive accountability and public awareness.

🌍 Migration and labor

The story threads also depict migrant workers and diaspora communities affected by Malaysia's political shifts. It shows how global labor networks intersect with national politics, influencing voter participation and perceptions of legitimacy. The depiction emphasizes systemic inequalities and the human cost behind political change.