From Malay Mail · Ian Jeremiah Patrick · · 2m
Liyana Jasmay directs Malaysian horror with 'Pemuja Syaitan'
The actress makes her feature directing debut with a supernatural thriller inspired by Fear Street but rooted in local sensibilities.
In brief
The actress makes her feature directing debut with a supernatural thriller inspired by Fear Street but rooted in local sensibilities. Liyana Jasmay is testing how far Malaysian audiences will embrace darker horror-thriller elements while keeping the story distinctly Malay. Originally reported by Malay Mail.
From actress to director
Liyana Jasmay, known for films like Histeria and Papadom in the 2000s, is making her feature directorial debut with supernatural horror-thriller Pemuja Syaitan.
Star-studded cast unveiled
The film was launched at 10Star Cinemas with its teaser and poster. It stars Zul Ariffin, Elizabeth Tan, Nadhir Nasar and Aila Azizul alongside other established actors.
A reunion gone wrong
Former school friends reunite on a remote island to reminisce. When they rediscover a buried time capsule, long-hidden secrets surface and terrifying events unfold.
More than jump scares
The film explores secrets, betrayal and the darker side of human nature when confronted with the past, not just frightening elements.
“Pemuja Syaitan is not simply a horror film that relies solely on frightening elements.”
Building tension and atmosphere
As director, Liyana wanted to ensure every story element builds tension and keeps audiences wondering what happens next throughout the film.
Fear Street was the blueprint
Liyana cited the Hollywood horror series as a key reference and inspiration when developing Pemuja Syaitan's premise and approach.
“Fear Street is definitely one of my references and inspirations.”
But with a Malay identity
While Fear Street is very Hollywood, Liyana wanted something different with a distinctly Malay feel and elements familiar to local audiences.
“This film still has a distinctly Malay feel, with elements that are familiar and relatable to local audiences.”
Testing audience boundaries
Liyana is trying to understand how far Malaysian audiences will embrace more extreme horror-thriller elements while staying grounded in what they recognize.
“This is one of my first films, so I'm still trying to understand how far Malaysian audiences are willing to embrace something more extreme.”
An experiment in Malaysian horror
The film is both a movie and an experiment. If audiences accept it, Liyana hopes to push boundaries even further and be more daring next time.
“If they do, perhaps I can go even further and be more daring with my next film.”
Opening in horror month
Pemuja Syaitan releases in Malaysian cinemas on October 15, 2026. It's produced by Mermaid Studios and distributed by SKOP Productions.
The takeaway
Liyana Jasmay is testing how far Malaysian audiences will embrace darker horror-thriller elements while keeping the story distinctly Malay.
