The articulation of anti-China-centrism in Sinophone Malaysian films

This study examines how Sinophone Malaysian films have engaged with China-centrism to advocate for local identity. Following the Sinophone concept, it specifically discusses the efforts of emerging Chinese Malaysian filmmakers, and how they promote local Sinophone identity in their films. The Sinophone concept, proposed by Shih Shu-mei, highlights a very important ideological intention: anti-China-centrism. Thus, this study further investigates these filmmakers’ level of resistance to China-centrism in constructing their local identities. Based on analysis of a few films, such as South of South, Nasi Lemak 2.0, Petaling Street Warrior, Woohoo!, and Ice Kacang Puppy Love, a narrative was found, proclaiming a “from China to local” identity. These films have maintained a distance from Chinese nationalism, and revealed the creole language of Chinese Malaysians used to create their local identities.