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Check FAQAbout Zan
I am a multimedia journalist, documentary filmmaker and writer based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. I have 16 years experience in the field and my last senior post was as Senior Editor, News Features, at Astro AWANI, Malaysia's first 24-hour news channel. Prior to that 4-year stint,, I was a contributing correspondent for several international news organisation which included, Al Jazeera International, Global Post, VPRO TV (Dutch), VJ Movement (Dutch) and a few more. I also have conflict journalism experience having reported and produced documentaries in places like Afghanistan, Syria, Lebanon, Egypt, Tunisia, Turkey and Southern Thailand. I have produced numerous feature documentaries that have gone on to screen in various international film festivals. And I am an author and have written four non-fiction books to date. I also run a boutique media company called Fat Bidin Sdn Bhd that produces non-fiction content for all mediums.
English
Malay
Video Package (Web / Broadcast)
Audio package (Radio / Podcast)
Interview (Video / Broadcast)
Portfolio
How about just being the best football spectators?
The author reminisces about being a passionate football fan of the Johor state team and the national team during the late 1980s and 1990s, highlighting favorite players and celebrating their victories, such as the double win in 1991.
Why is it so hard to stamp out misogyny and sexism?
The article discusses the complexities of polygamy and the recent spotlight on the issue in Malaysia after a PAS MP suggested that the government should provide moral support for men capable of polygamy, framing it as a solution for unmarried women over 30. The author criticizes this perspective, highlighting the problem of Muslim men in Malaysia viewing polygamy as an unquestionable right.
I thought politicians don’t say the darndest things anymore
The maturity of politics and democracy in Malaysia is indicated by a reduction in politicians and elected leaders making foolish statements. This is reminiscent of the past when Amir Muhammad compiled such quotes in his book 'Malaysian Politicians Say the Darndest Things', highlighting the absurdity of some political statements, such as Amar James Wong's comment on improving golf by chopping down the rainforest.
Those in power need to prove themselves more to the people
The author discusses the public's perception of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's approval rating in light of Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's court cases and the perceived cover-up to absolve him of corruption charges. The article suggests that those in power in Malaysia need to demonstrate greater accountability to the people.
Has Malaysia learned to accept centrist politics?
Following the recent state elections in Kelantan, Terengganu, Selangor, Penang, Kedah, and Negeri Sembilan, Malaysia's political landscape appears largely unchanged with the Pakatan Harapan unity administration and the Perikatan Nasional states maintaining their respective positions. The elections were initially seen as a test of the Harapan unity administration's mandate and support post-general election, but the outcome suggests a continuation of the status quo.
Bak kut teh is Malaysian, of course
A stall along Old Klang Road in Kuala Lumpur, run by an old Chinese couple, sells a uniquely Malaysian dish called bak kut teh, with variations including the traditional pork bone version, chik kut teh (chicken), and vegetarian. The author, a Muslim, prefers the vegetarian version and emphasizes that the key to a good bak kut teh lies in the herbs used in the soup.
‘Allah’ issue an opportunity for positive dialogue
The term 'Allah' is used by Muslims, Arabic-speaking Christians, and Jews, but within Islamic theology, it specifically refers to the God of Islam. The author reflects on the controversy surrounding the use of 'Allah' by the Catholic church's newspaper The Herald in Malaysia in 2007, which was argued to be exclusive to Islam and could cause confusion and religious tension. The author suggests that the issue could be an opportunity for positive dialogue and emphasizes the importance of the human element in journalism over artificial intelligence.
Hitting children is wrong - plain and simple
Parents defending a volleyball coach caught on video slapping two teenage girls is deemed disgusting by the author, who argues against physical abuse in parenting. The author shares a personal stance against hitting children, countering the adage 'spare the rod, spoil the child' with personal experiences of non-violent parenting.
Are there differences between citizenships of Malaysian men and women?
The author questions the equality of men and women in Malaysia, particularly in the context of a Court of Appeal decision that children born overseas to Malaysian women with foreign spouses do not automatically qualify for Malaysian citizenship. The author asserts that women should have the same rights and capabilities as men, including in leadership roles and citizenship rights.
The Fat Bidin Film Club (Ep 252) – Musyrik
The Fat Bidin Film Club's episode 252 discusses the horror movie 'Musyrik', which is criticized as being bad. The episode also explores the impact of marketing and promotions on the success of films. Zan Azlee, the host, promotes his book 'Guide to indie filmmaking' as a resource for aspiring filmmakers.
I celebrate CNY, Raya, Deepavali, Christmas; never been confused
Zan Azlee shares his family's multicultural practices in Malaysia, celebrating various cultural and religious festivals such as Chinese New Year, Hari Raya, Deepavali, and Christmas. He emphasizes the importance of understanding, respect, and non-judgmental exposure to different beliefs within the family, which has prevented confusion and promoted harmony. Azlee advocates for a tolerant society, educated in diversity, and criticizes any attempts to suppress specific religions or cultures. He expresses hope for Malaysia's future by looking at the harmonious living within his family.
I celebrate CNY, Raya, Deepavali, Christmas; never been confused
During Hari Raya Aidilfitri, the author's family visits the grave of their grandmother in Shah Alam to pay respects, a tradition that combines religious practices with cultural significance and family togetherness. The visit includes reading prayers, cleaning the gravesite, and enjoying ice cream potong, followed by a meal of laksa Johor at the mother's house, symbolizing a blend of religious and cultural practices.
Malaysians have matured, but not its political parties
Malaysia's political landscape, often compared to the US two-party system, is criticized for the opposition's lack of unity, as seen in recent state elections where Barisan Nasional made significant gains. The opposition, including coalitions like Pakatan Harapan and Perikatan Nasional, has struggled to present a united front against BN, despite attempts since 2008. The author suggests that a two-coalition system could work against a common adversary, which in this case is BN, historically viewed as the primary opponent.
Sure, make noise now but don’t forget to vote
The author reflects on their own youth and expresses excitement about the involvement of Malaysian youth in social and political issues. With the emergence of Undi18 and Muda, there is anticipation for a potential shift in Malaysian politics, moving away from longstanding political figures to a fresher, younger leadership.
Orangutan has never tried to kill me in shopping mall
Zan Azlee shares his lifelong passion for animals, recounting his experiences with various pets and his appreciation for wildlife documentaries and conservation efforts. He discusses the natural instincts of animals, emphasizing that they typically do not harm humans intentionally and that humans are not seen as prey. Azlee highlights the importance of respecting animals and their natural habitats, citing his own efforts to teach his children to appreciate nature. He argues that humans, being at the top of the food chain, have the responsibility to protect the earth and maintain a balance that allows all creatures to coexist harmoniously.
Viva the youth!
Zan Azlee expresses his view that the current Malaysian government is a caretaker government and criticizes the political maneuvers that led to its formation. He highlights the importance of the upcoming 2023 general election for a 'fresh reset' and praises the increase in registered voters following the implementation of the Undi18 legislation. Azlee argues that the youth, with their advocacy for human rights and anti-corruption, are crucial for the country's future and should be better represented in government. He anticipates significant changes in the next election due to the new youth voter demographic.
Despite floods destroying their livelihood, these doctors soldier on
In the aftermath of devastating floods in Taman Sri Muda, Shah Alam, Dr Shalini Devi Ramachandran and her husband Dr Yuveneswara Murti continue to provide free health treatment to an average of 130 patients a day despite their clinic, Klinik Aranda, being destroyed. With the help of a neighbor referred to as Steven and others, they managed to set up temporary treatment rooms. The clinic's expensive equipment was damaged, and they face financial challenges as insurance will not cover all the losses. The community has been supporting with medicine donations, but more help is needed.
VPRO Metropolis - Breeding geckos like crazy in Malaysia In Malaysia rumor has it that geckos have medicinal powers. The enzymes in their blood are said to cure AIDS and skin cancer. Mister Amran started breeding geckos like crazy and he now makes a lot of money off these colorful animals.
Astro AWANI (Malay) - The Royal Malaysian Air Force joins the MH370 SAR in Perth
Astro AWANI - No Rohingya in this village The whole world is looking at Malaysia and the Southeast Asian region due to the recent Rohingya humanitarian crisis where more than a thousand Rohingya refugees landed on the shores of Langkawi, Kedah and several thousands more still adrift at sea. Rumours began to surface that there is a small village on the island where the population consists of thousands of Rohingya. Of course this piqued Astro AWANI’s interest and so I travelled with cameraman, Fahmey Azhar, to Langkawi to see if these rumours were true.
Al Jazeera - Rohingya's right to education The Rohingya are a Muslim Ethnic group of the Northern Rakhine State of Western Burma who fled what Amnesty International has called human rights violations since the 1970s.
VJ Movement - Gay and Muslim in Malaysia "Ahmad," a Malay Muslim living in Kuala Lumpur, shares his struggles of being gay in a society that is at once modern as well as socially conservative.
VJ Movement - What's in a Name? "Allah" Stirs Controversy in Malaysia Government policy and racial politics underscored the recent violence over the use of the word "Allah" by non-Muslims in Malaysia.
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