AdminJitFest 2025, a festival honouring the creative legacy of Jit Murad, promises to be a spectacular celebration of one of Malaysia’s most iconic theatre figures. Organised by Dramalab, the event will take place at the Petaling Jaya Performing Arts Centre (PJPAC) from January 17 to 19, 2025. Jit Murad, celebrated as a playwright, actor, and trailblazer, is remembered for his groundbreaking contributions to Malaysian theatre and film, including works like Gold Rain and Hailstones, The Storyteller, and Spilt Gravy on Rice.
Dato’ Zahim Albakri, founder of Dramalab, described Jit as a transformative figure in Malaysian arts. “I’ve had the honour of calling Jit my best friend. He didn’t just contribute to Malaysian arts—he transformed it. Through his brilliant storytelling, evocative plays, and boundary-pushing satire, Jit held up a mirror to our society. He challenged us to see the beauty and absurdity in our daily lives.” Zahim shared.
Echoing this sentiment, Ida Nerina, executive producer of Dramalab shared, “He was more than a beloved friend and brother, he was an artist—a beacon of inspiration and a true trailblazer. Malaysia’s performing arts scene is infinitely richer because of him. I hope that audiences will enjoy what we have in store for them and thank you PJPAC and friends for your support
Day One: A Night of Laughter and Reflection
Opening the festival on January 17 is What a Load of Jit!, an evening dedicated to Jit’s life and works. The event will feature excerpts from his plays performed by celebrated actors, including Sharifah Amani, Ghafir Akhbar, and Datin Sofia Jane. Stand-up comedy by Harith Iskander and musical tributes by Dato’ Afdlin Shauki and Saidah Rastam promise an entertaining lineup.
The evening will also feature heartfelt tributes by Jit’s close friends and collaborators, such as Na’a Murad, Jo Kukathas, and Dato’ Zahim Albakri. Special moments will include the presentation of the Jit Murad Playwriting Competition 2024 awards, with winners Ridzwan Othman (Disappear The Mountain) and Leysha Al-yahya (Aku, Kau & Dia) receiving RM5,000 each. Tickets for this event range from RM100 to RM300, with discounts for students, seniors, and OKU.
Day Two: Celebrating Jit’s Cinematic Legacy
On January 18, Dramalab will screen Jit’s award-winning film Spilt Gravy on Rice, a work that has captured national and international acclaim. Directed by Dato’ Zahim Albakri, the film won Best Film and Best Screenplay at the 32nd Festival Filem Malaysia.
The screenings, scheduled at 11am, 3:30pm, and 8pm, will feature exclusive content, including deleted scenes, behind-the-scenes footage, and a Q&A session with the director. Tickets are priced at RM30, with discounts available for selected groups.
Day Three: Showcasing New Voices in Theatre
The final day of JitFest 2025 will shine a spotlight on the next generation of playwrights with rehearsed readings of the winning entries from the Jit Murad Playwriting Competition. Aku, Kau & Dia by Leysha Al-yahya will be staged at 2pm, while Disappear The Mountain by Ridzwan Othman will follow at 5pm.
These plays, directed by Jo Kukathas and Ghafir Akbar respectively, promise compelling narratives brought to life by talented casts. Tickets are priced at RM30, with discounts for students, seniors, and OKU.
JitFest 2025 is a fitting tribute to Jit Murad’s remarkable contributions to Malaysian arts. As audiences gather to celebrate his legacy, they will be reminded of the power of storytelling to inspire, challenge, and unite. Tickets for all events are available at www.onetix.com.my.
C. Khor
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