It’s become sort of a tradition here in Malaysia, where every major national celebration is greeted with a slew of ads by Malaysian companies that can only be described as creative, funny, tear-jerking, and most of all, entertaining. We’ve been blessed some really beautiful ads over the years, especially those from the late Yasmin Ahmad.
Last year, Maxis gave us the “Grandfather Stories” series of CNY ads on its YouTube channel, offering plenty of traditions practiced during the Lunar New Year – little things that may be lost to the younger generation. This Chinese New Year, we decided to look for the best Chinese New Year videos by Malaysian companies on YouTube. Check out seven of the best CNY 2014 ads after the jump.
“The Journey”, Astro Shaw
Let’s start with something different: The Journey, the long-awaited third feature film from notable Malaysian director Chiu Keng Guan’s Astro Chinese New Year trilogy films. Set to premiere in local cinemas from tomorrow, The Journey is a cross-continental story that explores the idea of culture, not just as tradition but as an expression of love. In other words, a must-watch Chinese New Year special for the family.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXaVqbOlFQQ
“Young Hearts”, Petronas
Another national staple, Petronas has been publishing beautiful ads for every national celebration for many years now, and “Young Hearts” is no different. Tugging at our heartstrings and reminding us to remain young at heart, this simple ad is another must-watch.
“The most unexpected Ang Pow”, Cadbury
What happens when you send someone back home for the Lunar New Year, after spending three years in another continent? Cadbury Malaysia captures the emotion of parents missing their beloved children who are studying or working abroad almost perfectly, as does the feelings of the child unable to return home for the Chinese New year.
“Happy Chinese New Year 2014”, Kia Malaysia
Then again, you don’t always need to resort to tear-jerkers to get your point across. Kia Malaysia’s set of three Chinese New Year commercials portray exactly the opposite of the company’s “Family-Like Care” for your cars, featuring popular Malaysian comedian Douglas Lim.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ry31aQPaVX8
“YORK 2014 Chinese New Year Commercial (Full Version)”
One of the shorter ads featured here, York’s CNY 2014 commercial goes for an approach that is a little tongue-in-cheek and over-the-top, featuring the God of Prosperity.
“Agency comes up with solution to counter the evil, diabolical effects of 2014.”, Naga DDB
Finally, here’s one that got us cracking up quite a bit. Naga DDB’s over-the-top and dramatic portrayal of the challenges awaiting us this 2014 – and it’s equally humourous solution – got us laughing a little more than we should have.
From all of us here at Lowyat.NET HQ, we’d like to wish our dear readers a very Happy Chinese New Year. Huat ahh!!!
What’s your favourite CNY ad for this year? Tell us in the comments section below! Or even better, if you found an ad not featured here that’s more entertaining, share them with fellow readers!
