THE return of Puteri Gunung Ledang The Musical 20 years after its theatrical debut has received an overwhelming response, with more than 18,000 tickets sold within hours across the pre-sale and public sale launches.
More than 22,000 people were still in the online queue, underlining the enduring appeal of the Malay folklore-inspired production, which returned to the stage on Oct 31 at the newly opened Jeffrey Cheah Performing Arts Centre (JCPAC) in Sunway City Kuala Lumpur.
The musical’s revival also marks a significant opening chapter for the RM200 million performing arts centre, an investment by Sunway Group aimed at providing a dedicated home for cultural productions and supporting Malaysia’s creative industry.
Behind the centre is Sunway Group founder and chairman Tan Sri Sir Dr. Jeffrey Cheah, who believes the country’s artistic talent and cultural heritage deserve greater recognition and opportunities to reach wider audiences.
At the centre’s official opening on Oct 16, Cheah said Malaysian artistes should be given access to quality facilities and stages to develop their craft, adding that the right support and encouragement could help them achieve their potential.
His vision for JCPAC extends beyond hosting major productions, with the centre intended to provide opportunities for established performers, emerging artists and those seeking to build careers in the creative industry.
The facility features a 1,200-seat Grand Theatre equipped with immersive sound and acoustic technology, as well as a 150-seat Studio designed for smaller productions and experimental performances.
First staged in 2006, Puteri Gunung Ledang The Musical reimagines one of the Malay world’s best-known legends through music, theatre and dance. The production was created by Enfiniti Productions, the Malaysian theatre and entertainment company founded by Puan Sri Tiara Jacquelina.
The 2026 revival brings together established performers and emerging talents, including Aisha Retno, Mila Mohsin, Aqasha, Mimi Fly and Nadia Aqilah. It also introduces the story to a younger generation while giving audiences familiar with the original production an opportunity to revisit the tale.
Tiara, Enfiniti’s chief dream maker, said the musical had always represented more than a theatrical production, describing it as a celebration of Malaysia’s history, heritage and storytelling traditions.
She said the strong response to its return demonstrated that local stories continued to resonate with audiences when presented with passion and creativity.
Tiara had previously considered the musical a completed chapter, but was encouraged to revive it by JCPAC director Melissa Teoh, who subsequently joined her as co-executive producer.
She also expressed appreciation for Cheah’s investment in the performing arts, saying sustained support and access to proper facilities were important in helping Malaysian creative talent grow and compete internationally.
For Cheah, the centre reflects a broader belief that national development should not be measured solely through economic growth and infrastructure, but also through investment in culture, education and the development of human potential.
JCPAC is designed to accommodate a diverse range of artistic traditions, from Malay theatre and traditional dance to Chinese opera, Indian classical performances and contemporary Malaysian productions.
Its inaugural programme also includes The Butterfly Lovers and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, alongside Puteri Gunung Ledang, reflecting the centre’s intention to host both local and international productions.
Located within Sunway Square in Sunway City Kuala Lumpur, alongside Sunway University and Sunway Medical Centre, JCPAC is envisioned as part of the wider community, offering opportunities for students, families and the public to experience live performances.
The strong reception for Puteri Gunung Ledang provides an early indication of the audience interest that homegrown productions can attract, while placing the spotlight on the importance of sustained investment in Malaysia’s performing arts sector.
