From Classroom to International Stage with Lessons for Aspiring Filmmakers

On 13 January 2026, Cammy Koo Hui Yin, director of NDHUK (Daughter), and Sashwin Chandrasegeran, shared their experiences with students at the MMU Cinema, Cyberjaya campus. Cammy’s film was selected for NEST at the 73rd San Sebastián International Film Festival (SSIFF) in Spain, while Sashwin was invited as the Student Jury for NEST 2025. Organised by the Faculty of Cinematic Arts (FCA), the session brought together students and FCA staff for an insightful discussion on filmmaking.

During the session, the panellists discussed the realities of presenting creative work on global platforms, sharing both the challenges and lessons they encountered along the way. Moderated by Mr. Syed Amar Ghazi Syed Ahmad Alkugsi, Deputy Dean of FCA, the panellists also offered students a glimpse of what it takes to transition from academic projects to the professional film circuit, highlighting the skills, resilience, and mindset needed to succeed internationally.

Students actively joined the discussion, asking thoughtful questions and engaging with the panellists’ stories. The session provided a valuable opportunity for students to connect classroom learning with real-world industry experience. It is hoped that Hui Yin’s journey will inspire more FCA students to explore opportunities in the international filmmaking arena.