KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 10 — In the world of rallying — a high-octane motorsport battled across both closed and public roads — Karamjit Singh is a name that sparks instant recognition.
Fondly known as the ‘Flying Sikh’ and competing professionally since 1985, he became the first Malaysian — and the first Asian — to win an international rally world title. His victories include the 2001 Asia Pacific Rally Championship, the 2002 FIA Production Car World Championship, and the FIA Asia-Pacific Rally Championships in 2002 and 2004.
Malaysian production house Astro Shaw, in collaboration with Woohoo Pictures, is set to bring Karamjit’s extraordinary story to life in a film titled Terbang, directed by none other than Chiu Keng Guan — the acclaimed filmmaker behind Malaysian favourites The Journey (2014) and Ola Bola (2016).
Irfan Zaini and Jack Tan on the set of ‘Terbang’. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin
The Flying Sikh’s legacy
“We believe the story of an icon like Karamjit Singh, fondly known as the ‘Flying Sikh’, deserves to be immortalised on the big screen,” said executive producer and head of Astro Shaw, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad.
“His historic victory at the 2001 FIA Asia Pacific Rally Championship was not only a proud achievement but also a defining moment that placed Malaysia firmly on the world stage.
“With Terbang, we hope to deliver not only adrenaline-pumping rally action but also to inspire pride and confidence in the belief that Malaysian films can stand tall as globally compelling stories, while staying true to their local soul,” she added.
Director Chiu said, “I wouldn’t say it’s a biopic, but it’s inspired by real events — something like Ola Bola.
“This story means a lot to Malaysians, and we want to share it with the whole country.”
The film also aims to shed light on Malaysia’s once-thriving rallying scene, which once captivated the nation but has since faded from the spotlight.
Malaysian actor Jack Tan, who has made a name in Taiwan and Hong Kong, plays ‘Lee Wai Kitt’. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin
Star power behind the wheel
Terbang boasts a strong line-up of local talents, including Irfan Zaini as “Ajeet”, a character inspired by Karamjit.
“I never imagined I’d get a role about a legend like Karamjit,” Irfan shared.
“I feel it’s a huge responsibility because I’m representing someone truly unique — a legend who made history in Malaysia.”
Irfan admitted he’s not a racer or rally driver, just someone who drives a regular car like anyone else.
He added that while he had only watched Formula 1 before, working on this project sparked a genuine interest and deep respect for rally racing.
Describing the film, he said, “It’s not just a story about a legend or racing — it’s filled with emotion, drama, love, and betrayal; scenes that will captivate the audience.”
Widely known for his portrayal of “Adik” in the acclaimed 2023 film Abang Adik, Jack Tan also joins the project as “Lee Wai Kitt”. He said he first accepted the role because of his admiration for director Chiu’s previous works and felt this was the perfect opportunity to work together.
“I also really liked the theme of the film (Terbang), especially because I’m someone who loves racing.
“I felt I could learn something valuable from this project, and that’s what drew me to take on the role of Kitt,” he said.
In the film, his character serves as the co-driver — the navigator in a rally car who sits in the front passenger seat — to Ajeet.
Zizan Razak as ‘Imran’, a role that adds comedic relief to the film. — Picture by Sayuti Zainudin
Reviving Malaysia’s rally spirit
Another familiar name in the cast is Zizan Razak, who plays the character “Imran”.
“I accepted this project because I know the story of Karamjit and it’s incredible — he made Malaysia’s name known in several countries.
“When I heard they were making this film, I had no reason to say no,” he said.
According to Zizan, Imran is a mechanic introduced to the world of rallying through Ajeet, and is based on a real-life person.
He added that the character would also bring humour to the film, describing him as “a similar character to Abang Long Fadil in KL Gangster and Jaki in Blood Brothers.”
Other cast includes Nam Ron as “Rahim”; Shweta Sekhon as “Lisa”, the female lead; Michael Helfman as “Richard”; Diana Danielle as “Marini”; Aeril Zafrel as “Basri”; Mikael Noah as “Adam”; and Qasrina Karim as “Sarah”.
Terbang has been in production for about a month and is tentatively slated for a Merdeka 2026 release. Filming will move from Perlis to New Zealand in the coming months.
By bringing Karamjit Singh’s story to the screen, the film promises to revive memories of Malaysia’s rallying heyday while celebrating a national legend who put the country on the world map.
