KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 7 — Indonesian horror film Munafik: Melawan Iblis has made a strong opening at the Malaysian box office, raking in RM2 million within just six days of its official theatrical release nationwide.
The remake of the 2016 Malaysian horror blockbuster Munafik has received an encouraging response from local audiences, with viewers taking to social media to share positive feedback about the film.
Among the aspects praised by audiences are the remake’s differences from the original, while actress Acha Septriasa’s portrayal of Fitri has also emerged as a talking point among viewers.
Executive producer Datuk Yusof Haslam described the film’s early box-office performance as an encouraging start and expressed his appreciation for the Malaysian audiences’ support.
“Alhamdulillah, the film has received strong support from Malaysian audiences.
“This achievement is also a very encouraging start.
“We would like to thank everyone who has chosen to support the film in cinemas.
“This support motivates us to further intensify our promotional and marketing efforts, while bringing Munafik: Melawan Iblis to even more audiences across the country.”
The film’s producer and Unlimited Production director Oswin Bonifanz previously shared that the Indonesian adaptation came together due to his interest in the original Munafik.
He said discussions to develop the remake began around 2023, eventually leading to the acquisition of film rights and the development of a new version that incorporates a distinctly Indonesian cultural identity.
According to Oswin, the remake was never intended to compete with the Malaysian original, but rather to reinterpret its story from an Indonesian perspective.
Directed by Guntur Soeharjanto, Munafik: Melawan Iblis features an ensemble cast including Arya Saloka, Acha Septriasa, Dimas Aditya, Faqih Alaydrus, Donny Damara, Widi Dwinanda, Annisa Hertami, Nova Eliza, Oce Permatasari and Elvira Devinamira.
The film follows Ustaz Adam, played by Arya, a ruqyah practitioner who helps people struggling with supernatural disturbances.
Following a devastating tragedy involving his family, Adam steps away from his work and attempts to lead a quiet, ordinary life.
However, his decision is challenged when his neighbour, Fitri, begins experiencing a series of disturbing and unexplained occurrences.
As Adam becomes drawn back into the world of supernatural disturbances, he is forced to confront the darkness surrounding Fitri while dealing with the wounds of his own past.
Produced by Unlimited Production and Skop Productions, Munafik: Melawan Iblis is currently screening in cinemas nationwide.
