TNB’s Chinese New Year film “Roaring Blessings” encourages empathy over first impressions

How often do we form judgments about others before truly understanding their story? Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s (TNB) Chinese New Year 2026 festive film, “Roaring Blessings,” challenges this instinct, reminding audiences that compassion begins when judgment ends.

Created by Chariot Agency, the film signals a thoughtful evolution in TNB’s festive storytelling by moving beyond traditional feel-good celebrations to address the social tensions and quiet misunderstandings ingrained in everyday Malaysian life.

Set against the vibrant tradition of lion dance, the film blends festive symbolism with a deeply human story about empathy, understanding, and seeing beyond the surface.

“Roaring Blessings” follows Ming, the disciplined head of a lion dance troupe, and Kenny, a young boy whose determination far outweighs his physical limitations. At first glance, Kenny appears ill-suited for the physical demands of lion dance. His awkward movements during training and moments of fatigue lead Ming and viewers to quietly question his place in the troupe.

As the story unfolds, Ming begins to uncover the deeper truth behind Kenny’s perseverance. This discovery leads to a pivotal moment within the troupe, where Kenny’s role becomes clearer and his contribution takes on new meaning.

“Chinese New Year films are often centred on light-hearted, feel-good moments,” said Adrian Cheah, Managing Director of Chariot Agency. “With TNB, we saw an opportunity to do something braver. To tell a story that reflects real social issues and everyday judgments Malaysians face. ‘Roaring Blessings’ marks TNB’s first step into more purposeful festive storytelling, showing that empathy and understanding can be just as powerful as celebration.”

“At the heart of this story is a very real human truth,” said Christyna Fong, Creative Director. “We live in a time where people are defined by first impressions. With ‘Roaring Blessings’, we wanted to remind Malaysians that kindness begins when we pause, look deeper, and truly understand one another.”

“This film was created to do more than mark a festive moment. It centres on human connection, everyday kindness, understanding, and experiences that truly matter. It reflects how TNB continues to evolve its festive storytelling to remain relevant to daily life, while staying true to our brand DNA and our commitment to building better, brighter lives,” said TNB’s Head of Group Corporate Communications, Samsul Ariffin bin Zainuddin.

At its core, “Roaring Blessings” is a celebration of goodwill that emerges when judgment gives way to empathy and assumptions are replaced by understanding. It is a timely reminder that the true meaning of Chinese New Year lies not only in tradition, but in the values that strengthen our shared humanity.

“Roaring Blessings”, produced in collaboration by Reservoir Production and directed by Quek Shio Chuan, is now live across Tenaga Nasional Berhad’s digital platforms nationwide.