KOTA KINABALU: “Ninavau”, the latest work by Sabahan storyteller Bebbra Mailin, marks a bold attempt to tell a story deeply relatable to Malaysian audiences, particularly in Sabah.
Told with sincerity in her first feature film as director, Bebbra presents a story of religious conversion that is often seen as taboo in mainstream cinema but remains relevant and universal.
“Ninavau” follows the title character, a Kadazan woman who returns to Sabah for her younger sister Elvira’s wedding while hiding the fact that she had converted to Islam during her years in Kuala Lumpur.
Her secret weighs heavily due to her family’s active involvement in the local church, compounded by Elvira’s doubts about her marriage and their father Edward’s financial struggles.
Through these tensions, Ninavau struggles to balance being a guiding light for her family while remaining true to the person she has become.
Although the story hints at the nuances between East and West Malaysia, the film frames these differences as reminders of how love often bridges the gaps that divide.
The film stars Sabahan talents Jovenea Jim, Tati Eliana Tonny and Edward Sinsong in its central roles.
Bebbra, herself a Muslim convert, said growing up in a Catholic household made her aware of the different expressions of religious tolerance in East and West Malaysia.
“It was not until 2003, when I ventured to West Malaysia at 18 to pursue my passion for film, that I truly felt the divide and the subtle, yet profound, 'differences' in how religion is perceived and practised in this new environment,” she said.
“‘Ninavau’ is not just a story—it is a cinematic exploration of the Kadazan Dusun family, centred around the character Ninavau, whose life choices reverberate through the lives of those around her.
“The film delves into universal themes of family, love, sacrifice, choices, and acceptance, all while unravelling complex relationships: between West and East Malaysia, between divergent religious beliefs, and within the individual’s quest for meaning.
“The title ‘Ninavau’, meaning ‘light’ in Kadazan, is more than just a word—it is a powerful symbol.
“In contrast to ‘light’, ‘darkness’ emerges as a metaphor for the barriers and fears we face, while ‘light’ represents the ever-present hope and resilience within us.
“Through ‘Ninavau’, I aim to portray the intricate journey of life, where each choice we make defines the path we walk, illuminating our unique place in the world.”
Born and raised in Kota Kinabalu, Bebbra holds a Master’s Degree in Communication (Screen Studies) from Universiti Sains Malaysia.
She has built a notable film portfolio with award-winning shorts, including “Eye Love” (Kota Kinabalu International Film Festival (KKIFF) 2011) and “Langad di Odu” (Borneo Eco Film Festival 2012).
Her documentary “Rapuh” screened in Japan in 2016, while her short film version of “Ninavau” won Best Short Film at Malaysia International Film Fest (Miffest) 2019.
She also produced “Prebet Sapu”, Malaysia’s entry to the 2022 Oscars.
“Ninavau” features cinematography by young Indonesian talent Bayu Prihantoro Filemon and a musical score recorded in Japan’s renowned Freedom Studio Infinity under the guidance of music director Andrew Boong.
The film’s sound design is crafted by Mohsin Othman of Technica Studios, a two-time winner of Best Sound Design at the Malaysia Film Festival.
Produced by Kristal Azmir Sdn Bhd and Le Mediator Studio Sdn Bhd, the film reunites the team behind “Prebet Sapu”.
“Ninavau” gained early attention after opening Miffest 2025, becoming the first Sabah-made film to receive such recognition.
The film is screening at 45 selected cinemas across Malaysia beginning Thursday (Dec 4).
