“Papa Zola The Movie” continues to dominate the Malaysian box office as the animated feature records an impressive RM43 million in ticket sales. The achievement further cements its position as one of the most successful local animated films in the history of Malaysian cinema.
The overwhelming response has sparked what many are calling a nationwide “Papa Zola Fever”, with families across the country flocking to cinemas during the school holidays. The film’s success reflects not only strong audience turnout, but also growing confidence in homegrown animation standing shoulder to shoulder with international releases.
Adding to the phenomenon are various social impact initiatives inspired by the film’s core values. Special screenings and “treat-to-the-movies” programmes were organised by local influencers such as Ashhhrap, Xavier Naxa, Cikgu Marviza, Wawan Foodie, Miera Faera, and Bella Park, giving more families and selected communities the opportunity to enjoy the movie. These efforts align closely with the film’s emphasis on togetherness, joy, and community support.
Director and Writer of the film, as well as Chief Executive Officer of MONSTA, Nizam Abd Razak, shared that the film has become a meaningful space for families to bond. He said, “During the school holidays, “Papa Zola The Movie” becomes a space for families to come together and create memories. What truly touched us was seeing the film enjoyed not only by parents and children, but also when grandparents were brought along to the cinema. Community initiatives that help more families across generations experience this film are very close to the values we aim to convey through ‘Papa Zola The Movie’.”
Meanwhile, Executive Producer of “Papa Zola The Movie” and Astro Shaw’s Chief Executive Officer, Raja Jastina Raja Arshad, described the achievement as a significant milestone for the local film industry. She stated, “This success is the result of audience support, and this achievement is deeply meaningful for the local film industry. Even with many new films from popular Hollywood franchises currently in cinemas, local films are still able to compete.”
She also extended her appreciation to those behind the scenes who contributed to the film’s success. “Our heartfelt thanks go to the audiences, media partners for their extensive coverage, and cinema operators who played an important role in making this success possible. With the long year-end holiday approaching this week, we hope even more viewers will head to the cinemas and not miss the opportunity to watch ‘Papa Zola The Movie’,” she added.
The film’s achievement underscores the strength of Malaysian animated storytelling, proving it can resonate with audiences of all ages. Strong local support has been the driving force behind the film’s success, signalling growing trust in the quality and narrative depth of local animation.
More than just entertainment, “Papa Zola The Movie” positions itself as a family film that brings parents and children together, creating shared moments during the extended school holiday period. Its emotional core and relatable themes have played a key role in its widespread appeal.
The story follows Papa Zola, a hardworking father striving to provide for his small family. His life takes an unexpected turn when he reunites with an old friend from a secret organisation known as P.A.P.A (Protect and Prevent Agency). Matters escalate when his child, Pipi, is kidnapped by aliens, forcing Papa Zola and Mama Zila into a race against time to rescue their child and protect the world from looming threats.
Currently screening in cinemas across Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, “Papa Zola The Movie” is also set to expand internationally. The film will enter Indonesian cinemas from January 2026, followed by releases in India, Vietnam, and Middle Eastern markets including Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, as well as Turkey in April 2026.
