By: Lim Min Jun

PENANG: Celestial Odyssey: The Screening took place here, at the HCUC Auditorium on the 22nd of July, marking its first-ever showcase of Year 1 Semester 3 Diploma in Mass Communication, broadcasting major students’ production.

From 7pm to 10pm, the venue buzzed with excitement as attendees gathered to witness the debut of six student productions – SE7EN PRODUCTION, TOKONG PRODUCTION, DUCK BUBI PRODUCTION, SAWADEEKA PRODUCTION, KUAILEXINGQIU PRODUCTION, and DITTO PRODUCTION.

The event featured a diverse array of music videos spanning various languages and a wide range of TV magazine segments, offering something for every taste. The audience members were treated to a captivating display of talent and innovation.

Highlighting the evening were the award presentations, recognizing excellence in filmmaking and media production. SE7EN PRODUCTION and DITTO PRODUCTION clinched the titles for Best Music Video, while SE7EN PRODUCTION and TOKONG PRODUCTION were honored for their outstanding works to Best TV Magazine.

Megan Ong, the TV Magazine director from SE7EN Production revealed that she felt extremely surprised but happy, as they did not really have any expectations for winning anything. 

Meanwhile, Wong Zheng, the DOP for both the MV and TV Magazine of SE7EN Production also shared that it felt very rewarding to win both awards as they spent a lot of money, time and effort to produce their work, and the weeks of sleepless nights were worth it.

SE7EN Productions member, Megan Ong (fourth from left), receiving The Most Favorite TV Magazine Award from Dr Lim Shiang Shiang (fourth from right)

“It’s an incredibly sentimental yet fulfilling moment when we witness our hard work finally pay off. All those countless hours that we poured into the video shooting process is exhausting.

“However when the audience supported and cheered for our production names, it was truly an unforgettable yet memorable experience.” said the director of SE7EN Productions, Ong Chun Wey.

Celestial Odyssey: The Screening was an extraordinary event, setting a new standard for future student-led initiatives in the broadcasting major, with the audience cheering enthusiastically as it concluded with a group photo.

“After this very successful screening where all tickets sold out within three hours and our promotional efforts proved highly effective, we reflect on the challenges we overcame during the preparation phase, including time constraints and miscommunication. 

“These experiences have taught us valuable lessons, and we are committed to avoiding similar pitfalls in the future. Looking ahead, we aspire to achieve even greater success, not only for ourselves but also for future juniors. 

“I would like to express my gratitude to everyone who contributed and to the organizing committee for their dedication and hard work,” shared the President of Celestial Odyssey: The Screening, Cheng Chee Hang.