To many Malaysians, Yasmin Ahmad was a celebrated filmmaker and the creator of many “feel-good” festive advertisements.

But to those closest to her, Yasmin was a visionary whose works helped Malaysians imagine a nation that embraces diversity and overcomes prejudice.

These were among the thoughts shared during a discussion after the screening of Yasmin’s 2008 drama "Muallaf" in Kuala Lumpur by the film’s actors and her family members on Monday night, in conjunction with the eighth anniversary of her passing.

“Ultimately, she had the courage and vision to present that idea and put it in people's head to say there is another Malaysia that is possible, one that is open-minded, tolerant and curious about the other,” Brian Yap told Malaysiakini...