From Screen to Reality in Malaysia Set-Jetting Becomes the New Trend in Travel, Inspiring Audiences to Visit Iconic Film Locations

Published on July 15, 2025

Set-jetting has emerged as a powerful new travel trend in Malaysia, where iconic film locations are drawing global visitors eager to experience their favorite cinematic moments in real life. As Malaysia continues to serve as a backdrop for major international productions, its breathtaking scenery, diverse culture, and dramatic architecture are captivating moviegoers and inspiring them to turn their screen dreams into travel plans. This shift from screen to reality is redefining how travelers choose their destinations—driven by emotion, storytelling, and the magic of cinema.

Set-Jetting: Exploring Malaysia Through the Lens of Cinema

As global audiences continue to be captivated by the magic of cinema, a growing number of travelers are turning to their favorite films for travel inspiration. This rising trend, known as “set-jetting,” involves visiting real-world locations showcased in movies and TV shows. With film and television productions increasingly influencing travel choices, many travelers are now planning their vacations even before the credits roll. They’re drawn to the captivating landscapes and unique landmarks they’ve seen on the big screen, eager to explore these places firsthand.

Malaysia, with its stunning diversity of landscapes—from lush rainforests and towering skyscrapers to picturesque coastlines—has become a top destination for both filmmakers and fans alike. Over the years, the country’s vibrant scenery and unique architecture have served as the backdrop for numerous international productions, drawing attention not only for its cinematic appeal but also for its potential to inspire set-jetting enthusiasts.

Malaysia: A Cinematic Haven

The Malaysian government has actively supported the growth of its film industry, offering various incentives to filmmakers and promoting the country as a hub for creative content. These initiatives, such as the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), provide cash rebates of up to 30% on the Qualifying Malaysian Production Expenditure (QMPE) and additional financial support to productions that meet specific criteria. These efforts aim to elevate Malaysia’s film production capabilities to international standards while boosting the country’s cultural and economic influence globally.

By offering financial incentives and fostering a creative ecosystem, Malaysia has positioned itself as a highly sought-after destination for filmmakers, resulting in an influx of global film productions. This has, in turn, paved the way for the rise of set-jetting, as more fans are inspired to visit the real-world locations featured in their favorite movies and TV shows.

Thunderbolts (2025): Kuala Lumpur’s Cinematic Debut

One of the most exciting recent films to showcase Malaysia is Marvel’s Thunderbolts, which introduces the vibrant city of Kuala Lumpur to global audiences. Iconic locations such as Medan Pasar and the towering Merdeka 118—currently the world’s second-tallest building—serve as pivotal backdrops in the film. The opening sequence of Thunderbolts features Florence Pugh’s character performing an adrenaline-charged leap from the skyscraper, offering a thrilling view of the city’s electrifying urban landscape. The film’s success, paired with its stunning portrayal of Kuala Lumpur, is expected to draw set-jetting travelers eager to explore the bustling metropolis and its dramatic skyline.

Crazy Rich Asians (2018): The Glamour of Malaysia’s Iconic Locations

Though Crazy Rich Asians is set in Singapore, much of the film was shot in Malaysia, where its glamorous settings and lush landscapes provided the perfect backdrop for the story. The luxurious E&O Hotel in Penang, for example, stood in for the fictional Calthorpe Hotel in London. Other iconic Malaysian locations, such as the grand Putrajaya campus and the magnificent Carcosa Seri Negara in Kuala Lumpur, also made an appearance in the film. Langkawi, with its breathtaking beaches, became the setting for Colin Khoo’s bachelor party, while the Four Seasons Resort played host to Araminta Lee’s bachelorette weekend. These stunning locales have captured the imaginations of viewers, turning Malaysia into a must-visit destination for fans of the film.

Venom (2018) and Blackhat (2015): Malaysia’s Growing Appeal for Major Productions

In addition to Crazy Rich Asians and Thunderbolts, Malaysia has also become the setting for other major Hollywood blockbusters. Venom (2018), for instance, opens with a striking sequence set in Malaysia’s tropical landscapes, where a symbiotic alien crashes onto the lush earth. Malaysia’s natural beauty is showcased in the film’s references to locations like Sibu, and a key scene features a paramedic speaking in Malay, adding an authentic cultural touch to the narrative. Similarly, Blackhat (2015), starring Chris Hemsworth, utilized several Malaysian locations, including Seri Manjung in Perak and Kuala Lumpur, to craft a gripping cyber-thriller with a Southeast Asian backdrop.

A Journey Across Malaysia’s Iconic Film Locations

The rise of set-jetting has propelled Malaysia to the forefront of film tourism. The country’s remarkable versatility as a filming location has made it a frequent choice for filmmakers, with its diverse range of environments able to double for various global cities and landscapes. From the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur to the serene beaches of Langkawi, Malaysia offers a variety of settings perfect for any genre, from action-packed thrillers to heartwarming romantic dramas.

Over the years, numerous other films have highlighted the beauty and cultural richness of Malaysia. For example, the 1999 film Anna and the King featured the historical town of Kuala Kangsar in Perak, showcasing the country’s colonial heritage. More recently, the superhero film Keluang Man (2025) was filmed in locations across Malaysia, including Kuala Lumpur, Kluang, and Ipoh, and has sparked interest in these locations from dedicated fans eager to relive their favorite cinematic moments.

The Future of Set-Jetting in Malaysia

As Malaysia continues to develop its creative industries and attract more international film productions, it is poised to become an even more significant destination for set-jetting travelers. Whether it’s exploring the landmarks featured in Crazy Rich Asians or experiencing the stunning views of Kuala Lumpur from the Merdeka 118 in Thunderbolts, fans now have the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of their favorite characters.

Set-jetting is rapidly transforming travel in Malaysia, as film-inspired tourists flock to real-life locations featured in movies and TV shows. The country’s stunning backdrops and growing presence in global cinema are turning on-screen scenes into must-visit destinations.

By embracing its role as a cinematic haven, Malaysia has successfully turned its scenic beauty and cultural landmarks into international tourism assets. For travelers looking to combine their love of film with the excitement of exploration, Malaysia offers an unforgettable journey into the heart of some of the world’s most iconic cinematic locations. As the country continues to play a pivotal role in global film productions, the set-jetting trend is only set to grow, inviting more visitors to step into the magic of the movies.