2021
Production began when we thought Covid-19 restrictions in Malaysia would ease. Cases skyrocketed instead, and the government doubled down in response. Police roadblocks were set up at every district border in the country, and only those with authorised permission were allowed to travel past certain distances. With the traditional talking heads and b-roll formats no longer an option, the participant interviews were conducted virtually.
2022
Having only video call footage and run-and-gun audio to work with, we decided to turn the recordings into voice overs that will play in tandem with animated sequences, bringing their stories to life in an engaging manner. No one wants to look at a bunch of Zoom screens after all!
Each 6-8 minute episode will be attached to a different animator to showcase the distinct circumstances and personalities of every participant through various visual styles, all while maintaining an overall hand-drawn/painted look.
2023
With our crowdfunding campaign successfully wrapped, our talented crew are currently working hard to bring their assigned episodes to life.
2024
We screened episodes 1-3 on Sunday, May 26 at Facets Theater in Chicago, followed by a Q&A session with the crew. Most of the proceeds went toward helping out 2 of our participants, Peter and DHRRA Malaysia.
Peter used the funds to buy school supplies, along with paying off a portion of the rent for the space the school uses. DHRRA Malaysia is currently raising funds to support advocacy and data collection efforts to further address statelessness in the country. The donations will greatly aid in providing social protection, psychological support, policy and advocacy, paralegal assistance, and awareness campaigns surrounding the issue.
Check out the event highlights video here!
2025
We premiered the docuseries in its entirety at Sunway University, one of Asia’s and South East Asia’s top private universities, on 25-26 June 2025. The premiere was part of an exhibition also organized by the Invisible People committee to further amplify stateless and refugee voices.
The event was a harmonious blend of multimedia showcases such as a photo gallery and short film showcase by refugee filmmakers, interactive experiences, live performances, stateless and refugee-run merchant booths, food and drink, and good company.
Exhibition Partner Organizations: Innkuan Project, Myanmar Ethnics Organization, Buku Jalanan Chow Kit, Borneo Komrad, Anti Death Penalty Asia Network (ADPAN), Wellness x Dignity, Fugee Org, Chin Refugee Committee Learning Center, Picha Eats, The Fourth, Development of Human Resources in Rural Areas (DHRRA), Malaysia, Family Frontiers, Mon Refugee Learning Centre, Amnesty International Malaysia, Dorna, Way Studios, Dari Dapur
Check out the event highlights video here!
We’re working on more ways to publicly roll out the whole series with our partner organizations and individuals, so keep up with project updates by following our socials here!