A heartfelt celebration of culture, connection, and cross-border romance hits the big screen with the upcoming theatrical release of Worth The Wait a romantic comedy backed by Tourism Malaysia. More than just a film, it’s a global love story that also showcases Malaysia’s breathtaking beauty, cultural diversity, and warm spirit to the world.
The red carpet premiere held at DADI Cinema, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, brought together over 200 distinguished guests, including cast members and filmmakers who flew in from the United States, Canada, Taiwan, and Singapore. Directed by the award-winning Taiwanese filmmaker Tom Shu-Yu Lin, this marks his first English-language feature, further adding to the film’s significance in Asian cinematic history.
Boasting an all-star cast, Worth The Wait features major talents such as Ross Butler (13 Reasons Why), Lana Condor (To All The Boys I’ve Loved Before), Andrew Koji (Black Doves), Sung Kang (Fast & Furious), Elodie Yung (The Cleaning Lady), Karena Ka-Yan Lam (a multi-Golden Horse Award-winning actress making her U.S. and English debut), Osric Chau (Supernatural), Kheng Hua Tan (Crazy Rich Asians), and Yu-Beng Lim (Rebel Moon).
Part of the film was shot across stunning locations in Malaysia, from urban landmarks to nature’s hidden gems. The production not only captures emotional storytelling, but also elevates Malaysia’s presence as an ideal filming and travel destination. It stands as a creative bridge between cinema and tourism, furthering efforts to promote Malaysia’s natural beauty, multicultural richness, and ever-welcoming hospitality on a global stage.
“Worth The Wait speaks to the heart, and we hope it inspires viewers around the world to visit Malaysia,” said Datuk Manoharan Periasamy, Director General of Tourism Malaysia. “This partnership is aligned with our broader mission to integrate tourism with the creative industry, and positions Malaysia as a preferred destination for international filmmakers ahead of Visit Malaysia 2026.”
The film also carries personal meaning. Produced by former Miss Malaysia Rachel Tan, it draws inspiration from her own long-distance love story with husband and co-creator Dan Mark. “We wanted to tell a story that resonates with audiences globally while staying true to our Asian roots,” Rachel shared. “The response has been incredible so far.”
Already achieving streaming success across North America, the United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, Worth The Wait is poised for regional cinema releases starting in Singapore before making its Malaysian debut this August, distributed by Astro Shaw.
Produced by King Street Pictures, a studio known for championing Asian representation in Hollywood, Worth The Wait is their seventh feature film and another bold step in amplifying Asian voices through powerful and inclusive storytelling.
As Worth The Wait sets out to capture hearts worldwide, Malaysia shines in the frame proof that love, culture, and cinematic magic truly know no borders.
For more information about Worth The Wait and upcoming tourism initiatives, visit www.tourism.gov.my.