A Malaysian video content creator Mohamad Sofian Abdullah, better known as Sofyank, recently grabbed attention with a video promoting Singapore tourism.
The video highlighted travel tips, popular stops, and key MRT stations, all enhanced with his signature VFX and cinematic editing style.
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One user expressed disappointment, commenting, “Tak promote Malaysia ke walaupun tak diambil untuk mempromosi negara sendiri?”, which means, “Not promoting Malaysia even though you were not hired to promote your own country?” However, Sofyank responded calmly on Twitter, “For sure! God willing there will be an opportunity for our team to shoot, and we will produce it.”
Source: Twitter
There are some defended him. One commenter said, “Bodo je yang tanya kenapa tak promote negara sendiri. dia bukan buat amal jariah. dia buat servis,” means that, “S*upid are those who ask why he is not promoting his own country. He is not doing charity; he is providing a service.”
Source: Twitter
Another user highlighted that the project was clearly a paid collaboration, saying it could not have been done for free, and if Tourism Malaysia did the same, there would be a video for Malaysia too, so Sofyank should not be criticized for pursuing career opportunities abroad.
Sofyank who was born in Kota Bahru, Kelantan, is often dubbed Malaysia’s own Zach King for his magical, cinematic visual effects videos. He gained international recognition in 2023 after winning the Ultimate VFX Challenge — Magic of the Month, organized by King in Los Angeles, besting competitors from the UK and the Netherlands.
@zachking Life isnt always as it seems @sofyank96 ♬ original sound – Zach King
The win led to high-profile collaborations with King, including the viral coffee cake video, and a creative short with Transformers: Rise of the Beasts star Anthony Ramos, where Sofyank famously shrinks a car to fit into his pocket.
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Sofyank is undoubtedly one of Malaysia’s top talents in video content and visual effects, and it would be unfair to hold him back from exploring better opportunities abroad.
