Hekna Raja from Malaysia won the Best Music Director award for the short film The Judgement at the Mannin Mainthan Malaysia (MMM) Short Film Contest.

Hekna, an avid music lover, holds a Diploma in Animation and Multimedia Design and is currently studying for a BA (Hons) in Digital Film and Television.

Having been involved only in small scale music projects in the past, Hekna said the MMM win was an “unexpected victory” due to the fierce competition and talented line-up of nominees.

“A friend of mine made his debut direction for a short film in this contest, and I volunteered myself to compose the music which has rewarded me with such a valuable prize,” he said.

Hekna said the international exposure at Limkokwing University gave him the confidence to go out and explore the world.

“I really learned a lot with my international friends and I had the privilege to share thoughts with people from different parts of the world,” he said.

Biggest challenge to date

Hekna described this contest as the most challenging one that he has ever participated in because he only had two days to complete the entire music composition.

“I could barely believe my own eyes on how I completed it but I have to tell you, I am truly proud of myself for pulling this through,” he said.

Hekna is a huge fan of “experimental trap music” and his production for this short film was inspired by the global box office hit, Black Panther.

He started off his passion by playing digital drums, piano and guitar during his younger days.

“Most of the time, I would watch Youtube tutorials to sharpen my skills and knowledge in this entertainment field,” said Hekna.

Hekna’s advice for aspiring music students is to always keep their feet on the ground and to give full commitment in everything they do.

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