Background

Jaring & Jaringan (Nets & Networks) is a long-form documentary I produced between 2020 and 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. The film premiered on 12 January 2023 and was supported by the Digital Content Grant from the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) and the Ministry of Multimedia and Communications Malaysia for broadcast on Radio Televisyen Malaysia TV1.

I produced, directed, and wrote this hour-long documentary with the support of many individuals. In particular, I wish to acknowledge Serina Rahman, principal advisor of Kelab Alami and the production’s local fixer; the fisherfolk community of Mukim Tanjung Kupang, Johor; and the Iskandar Malaysia Social Hero Awards (IMSHA) network of participants whose stories form the heart of the film. Their narratives of resilience in the face of adversity were conveyed through Serina as their challenges unfolded 336 kilometres away from Kuala Lumpur—a multicultural story worth sharing with Malaysians from all walks of life.

Despite the numerous obstacles encountered during production—most notably the Movement Control Order, and delays surrounding the film’s release—this was a story worth telling.

Synopsis
In March 2020, Malaysia shuts its international borders and enforces the Movement Control Order in response to a global pandemic virus outbreak. With customers ordered to stay home and restaurants forced to close, the fishermen of Mukim Tanjung Kupang, Johor struggle to sell their catch. Fish market owner Shalan Jum’at is worried about the livelihoods of 40+ fishermen under his care; without customers how will they pay rent, feed their families or buy boat fuel? The fishermen cast their nets to catch fish but will it take a network of Malaysians to help all to survive the first 85 days?