This year, as Hari Raya festivities liven up Kuala Lumpur, it’s time to unwind and spend time with family and friends. Amidst the delicious food, firecrackers, and music, movies are also a must. Here are our picks of the best Hari Raya movies that are best watched with family and friends.
Gathering around the house TV and putting on Malaysian movies on DVD is a nostalgic memory for many. Today, the only difference is that we have discs with streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime. Instead of watching the typical Hollywood blockbusters, Malaysians prefer to experience locally made films telling stories that hit home.
Whether it be the thrilling action of Sheriff: Narko Integriti or the comedic hijinks of Kongsi Raya, these movies will bring your loved ones closer to the couch. Thankfully, Netflix in particular has many Malaysian titles on its platform to enjoy. So after tiring yourself out playing tag or wolfing down plates of lontong, snuggle on the couch and play these films.
The 8 best Hari Raya movies to stream with family and friends
Badak
For a heartfelt Malaysian drama this Hari Raya, Badak tells the story of a devoted deaf single father, played by Shaheizy Sam. He runs a humble burger stall and communicates with his daughter Mirah through sign language, relying on her help in daily life. However, their close relationship is tested when Mirah begins pursuing her dream of becoming a hip-hop artist and is suddenly thrust into the spotlight.
Watch Badak here.
Mencari Ramlee
For a nostalgic trip through Malaysia’s golden age of cinema, Mencari Ramlee offers a heartfelt tribute to the legendary P. Ramlee. Directed by Megat Sharizal, the story follows a young man named Zakaria who dreams of becoming a star like his idol Ramlee. When he travels to Singapore to pursue a career in film, he quickly discovers that fame and success come with their own challenges.
Watch Mencari Ramlee here.
Polis Evo 3
If you’re in the mood for explosive action this festive season, Polis Evo 3 delivers plenty of adrenaline. Directed by Syafiq Yusof, the film reunites elite police officers Khai and Sani as they investigate a deadly terrorist attack that shakes the nation. As the duo race against time to stop a larger conspiracy, they are forced to confront their own pasts and loyalties.
Watch Polis Evo 3 here.
Sheriff: Narko Integriti
Crime thriller fans got to add Sheriff: Narko Integriti to their Raya watch list. Directed by Syafiq Yusof, the film follows an elite narcotics officer known as Sheriff, played by Zul Ariffin. Tasked with dismantling a powerful drug cartel, Sheriff must navigate corruption within the system while tracking down a mysterious vigilante killer known as “Meth Killer.”
Watch Sheriff: Narko Integriti here.
Kongsi Raya
Few films capture the spirit of Malaysian multiculturalism quite like Kongsi Raya. Directed by Teddy Chin, this heartwarming romantic comedy centres on a Chinese chef and a Malay television host who fall in love despite cultural expectations and family traditions. As Hari Raya approaches, the couple must navigate misunderstandings, parental pressure, and a clash of cultures.
Watch Kongsi Raya here.
Showtime 1958
Set in Singapore, Showtime 1958 takes viewers back to the prime days of Malay cinema. Directed by Anwardi Jamil, the film is a tribute to his late father, Jamil Sulong. Based on actual events, the story unfolds during 24 hours at a concert organised by P. Ramlee and Jamil to raise funds for the Malayan Artistes Union. Fun fact: Ramlee and Jamil famously wrote the iconic “Selamat Hari Raya” song during this very concert.
Watch Showtime 1958 here.
Puteri Gunung Ledang: A Legendary Love
For those who enjoy sweeping historical epics, Puteri Gunung Ledang retells the tragic love story between Hang Tuah and the mystical princess Puteri Gunung Ledang. Featuring lavish period costumes and grand palace settings, the film reimagines one of the most famous legends in Malay folklore in a rare cinematic spectacle.
Watch Puteri Gunung Ledang here.
Hantu Kak Limah
No Hari Raya movie marathon would be complete without a dose of kampung-style comedy. Directed by Mamat Khalid, Hantu Kak Limah continues the cult-favourite story set in the quirky village of Kampung Pisang. When Kak Limah is mysteriously found dead, rumours begin spreading that her ghost is haunting the villagers. What ensues is a hilarious mix of supernatural chaos, eccentric characters, and satirical humour. The film is one of Malaysia’s highest-grossing local films and remains a festive favourite.
Watch Hantu Kak Limah here.
(Hero image credit: Instagram/gscmovies / Feature image credit: Instagram/555_films)
Note : The information in this article is accurate as of the date of publication.
