KUCHING, May 30 — In celebrating this year’s Gawai festivities, Petronas proudly presents ‘Marked’ or ‘Tanda Kasih’, a touching story that explores the power of personal resilience, the strength of family bonds, and the beauty of cultural pride.

In a statement, Petronas said the film, which premiered today across their official YouTube and Facebook channels, follows Melia, a young Iban girl, as she undergoes an emotional journey of self-acceptance, confronting the challenges of growing up with a prominent birthmark on her forehead.

As Gawai approaches, Melia is asked to wear the sugu tinggi, a traditional Iban woman’s headdress that symbolises dignity and cultural heritage. However, doubt lingers in her heart as she wonders if she is truly worthy of bearing such a significant piece of tradition.

"Her silent struggles go largely unnoticed by her family, except for her grandmother, whose loving presence and gentle encouragement become a source of strength and guidance.

"More than a story of self-acceptance, ‘Marked’ celebrates the ties that unite us, family, and community, and reminds us that strength grows through connection and shared heritage,” the statement read.