By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Sept 8: Moviegoers can catch a free public screening of the animated short film ‘Michiru’ this Saturday (Sept 12) at GSC Cinemas, The Spring Shopping Mall here.
Kuching City South Council (MBKS) Mayor Dato Wee Hong Seng said that the 30-minute animated short, produced entirely with artificial intelligence (AI), is set in Kuching and showcases familiar landmarks such as the city’s old streets, local markets, the riverfront, and the public library.
There will be two screening slots—2pm and 3pm—and seating will be free on a ‘first come, first served’ basis. Ticket collection will start at 10am on Saturday at the Isekai Zero Booth.
“This screening is the film’s world premiere, ahead of its global YouTube release—probably the first in Malaysia too,” he said during a press conference at MBKS today.
Wee explained that a small local team produced the film using modern AI technology to showcase Kuching through an animated narrative.
He said the public screening would give Kuching residents a chance to watch the locally produced animation before it is released to a wider global audience online.
He added that MBKS and Torabera ACG Fest jointly organise the screening as part of Torabera 4.0, a three-day festival being held at The Spring Shopping Mall from Sept 11 to 13.
Wee highlighted that the festival would feature three zones offering various activities, including cosplay events, creator booths, gaming tournaments, and themed cafes.
Wee noted that MBKS is supporting the festival to foster creative growth and provide a dedicated platform for local creators and enthusiasts to showcase their work.
Visual materials related to ‘Michiru’ will also be available at the festival venue from Sept 11 for visitors to view.
He added that the free screening is expected to attract animation fans, young creators, families, and members of the public interested in seeing how Kuching’s familiar landmarks have been brought to life in an AI-produced animated film.
Also present at the press conference was Isekai Zero Kuching chief community officer Jimsley Lim. — DayakDaily
