Full Breakdown
Controversy Surrounds Mediacorp's "Highway to Somewhere" Over Malaysia's Portrayal
4/12/2026, 8:35:43 AM
Overview of the Controversy
The Singaporean drama series "Highway to Somewhere," produced by Mediacorp, has sparked significant backlash from Malaysian organizations due to its depiction of Malaysia as a hub for scam syndicates. The 20-episode series, which aired from March 9 to April 7, 2023, follows a couple and their friends who encounter a scam while traveling in Malaysia. Critics argue that the portrayal could damage Malaysia's international reputation and tourism industry.
Key Figures & Organizations Involved
The controversy has been prominently voiced by Lee Yong Kwee, the founding president of the Malaysia Ma-Zhong Tradition Culture Association, who expressed concerns that the series could lead to misunderstandings about Malaysia among international audiences. Andrew Tan, president of the Malaysia Professional Skill Development Education Association, also criticized the show, urging Singaporean authorities to consider halting its broadcast.
Official Responses from Mediacorp
In response to the criticism, a spokesperson for Mediacorp stated that the production team took care in depicting Malaysia and emphasized that the storyline was not intended to target any specific country. Screenwriter Ang Eng Tee defended the show, explaining that the inclusion of scams was inspired by real-life reports of scam syndicates affecting both Singapore and Malaysia. He noted that the criminals in the series were portrayed as coming from abroad, and the storyline concluded with their arrest, aiming to highlight the importance of vigilance against scams.
Criticism & Opposition
Malaysian critics argue that despite showcasing Malaysia's scenic attractions, the series ultimately presents the country in a negative light. Lee Yong Kwee highlighted that the portrayal could mislead tourists, while Andrew Tan pointed out that the show could harm Malaysia's cultural reputation and tourism sector. The Malaysian Chinese Culture and Trade Association echoed these sentiments, stating that the drama's depiction could seriously damage the country's image.
On-the-Ground Perspectives
The director of "Highway to Somewhere," Oh Liang Cai, stated that the scam storyline was a minor aspect of the overall plot, which aimed to showcase lesser-known attractions in Malaysia. He expressed hope that viewers would appreciate the beauty of the country as depicted in the series. Ang Eng Tee mentioned that the drama had prompted interest among viewers to explore the featured locations, countering the negative portrayal.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While the Malaysian organizations have called for action against the series, the Mediacorp team maintains that their intentions were misinterpreted. There is a notable discrepancy between the concerns raised by Malaysian critics and the production team's assertions that the show was meant to promote Malaysia's beauty rather than tarnish its image.
Verbatim Quotes
- “This seriously damages the image of Malaysia, and can affect our country's culture and tourism,” — Lee Yong Kwee, Founding President, Malaysia Ma-Zhong Tradition Culture Association
- “It also happens in Singapore and many other places.” — Ang Eng Tee, Screenwriter
- “We filmed Malaysia beautifully, and never had the intention to portray the country as a scam centre,” — Ang Eng Tee, Screenwriter
The controversy surrounding "Highway to Somewhere" highlights the delicate balance between creative storytelling and cultural representation, raising questions about the impact of media portrayals on national identities.
