Mediacorp Responds to Criticism Over Malaysia Portrayal in Highway to Somewhere

Singapore’s national media network Mediacorp has addressed criticism from Malaysian organizations regarding its Chinese-language drama Highway to Somewhere, which some critics claim unfairly portrays Malaysia as a hub for scam syndicates.

The controversy emerged after Malaysian groups expressed concern that the series linked the country’s tourism destinations with organized crime. Lee Yong Kwee, a leader of a Malaysian cultural association, argued that the narrative risked shaping negative perceptions of the country. Similarly, Andrew Tan, the head of a Malaysian education association, urged Singaporean authorities to review the program and consider halting its broadcast.

Mediacorp Response

In a statement issued on April 10, 2026, a Mediacorp spokesperson asserted that the production had taken care in its depiction of Malaysia and that the storyline was not intended to target any specific nation.

While the drama addresses the global rise of scams, this subplot was intended to raise awareness of a universal threat rather than to characterise any specific destination

Mediacorp spokesperson via CNA

The network further clarified that the plot was designed to affirm the rule of law. According to the spokesperson, the perpetrators within the story are portrayed as foreign actors who are ultimately brought to justice by Malaysian authorities.

Production and Filming Details

Mediacorp highlighted that the series was filmed on location across several Malaysian destinations, including Ipoh, Port Dickson, and Kukup. The network stated that these locations were chosen specifically to showcase the beauty, culture, and lesser-known tourist attractions of the country.

The 20-episode series follows a married couple, played by Romeo Tan and Jeanette Aw, and four friends portrayed by Herman Keh, Seow Sin Nee, Bonnie Loo, and Jasmine Sim. The plot centers on these characters traveling to Malaysia and becoming entangled in a transnational scam syndicate.

Ang Eng Tee, the screenwriter for the series, told Shin Min Daily News that the narrative was inspired by real-world scam cases that have affected both Singaporeans and Malaysians. He stated that the plot was intended as a cautionary tale rather than a country-specific indictment.

Broadcast Status

The drama concluded its broadcast run on Channel 8 on April 7, 2026. The series remains available for viewing on the streaming platform mewatch.