MR D.I.Y. puts family ties on trial again, in CNY film starring HK actor Kenneth Ma

MR D.I.Y. Malaysia is ushering in Chinese New Year 2026 with a courtroom twist, launching a festive web film that swaps the traditional reunion dinner table for an ancient court inspired by the legendary Justice Pao.

Titled 'The Family Trial 2: Storm of Reunion', the approximately 10-minute web film anchors the brand’s Chinese New Year campaign, blending humour, emotion and cultural nostalgia to explore themes of family, reconciliation and unspoken sacrifice.

The film stars award-winning Hong Kong TVB actor Kenneth Ma Kwok-ming and serves as a sequel to MR D.I.Y.’s 2025 festive hit The Family Trial, continuing the brand’s tradition of telling relatable, family-centric stories drawn from everyday Malaysian life.

Set against the backdrop of a quirky ancient courtroom, the story opens with two brothers locked in a dramatic dispute, their grievances laid bare through witty exchanges and exaggerated accusations. As the “trial” unfolds, the narrative transitions into a modern-day setting, revealing the deeper truth behind the conflict. Long-held misunderstandings slowly unravel as both brothers come to recognise the quiet acts of care, love and sacrifice they have made for one another over the years.

What begins as confrontation ultimately gives way to empathy, forgiveness and an emotional reunion, reinforcing the importance of communication and understanding during the festive season.

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Alex Goh, vice president of marketing at MR D.I.Y. Group, said the story reflects the small but meaningful moments that define family relationships. “Chinese New Year is a time for families to come together, reconnect and appreciate one another. The Family Trial 2: Storm of Reunion reflects the small but meaningful moments that shape family relationships. Through humour and heartfelt storytelling, we hope to remind Malaysians that love, understanding and togetherness are what truly matter,” he added.

Since its release, the web film has struck a chord with audiences, amassing more than five million views across MR D.I.Y. Malaysia’s social media channels in under three days, signalling strong resonance with festive viewers.

Alongside the emotionally driven web film, MR D.I.Y. has also rolled out a music-led activation to inject energy and participation into its Chinese New Year campaign. The brand introduced an original upbeat song and music video with a fun Japanese-inspired title, Chotto Matte Kudasai (Hold on a minute), featuring a festive rhythm and playful choreography. Of course, kudos to the play on the word "kuda", which means horse in Malay. 

At the heart of the activation is a nationwide dance challenge inspired by the song’s catchy beat and signature “stop” hand gesture. The MV also features well-loved creators Elaine Ying and local artist Pang Ee Jun. Designed to complement the campaign’s storytelling, the challenge invites Malaysians to take part in a light-hearted, movement-driven celebration of the Year of the Horse.

“Our Chinese New Year music video and original song, Chotto Matte Kudasai, are designed to bring people together through a shared festive experience that is light-hearted, energetic and unmistakably MR D.I.Y. By combining music, movement and a simple hand stop gesture, we aim to create a fun and inclusive way for Malaysians to express creativity while celebrating the season in their own unique style,” Goh added.

Together, the web film and dance challenge form a dual-pronged Chinese New Year 2026 campaign that balances emotional storytelling with participatory digital engagement, encouraging both reflection and celebration. Beyond digital activations, MR D.I.Y. is also extending the festive spirit in-store with its "Marvellous CNY 2026" product highlights. The range includes exclusive Chinese New Year decor and festive food items available at selected MR D.I.Y. outlets nationwide, reinforcing the brand’s value-for-money positioning during the peak festive period.

Last year, MR D.I.Y. launched the first part of 'The Family Trial' an eight-minute-long film featuring Hong Kong star Benz Hui and follows a father and son caught in a comedic feud over their Chinese New Year plans. However, the son soon discovers his father’s secret health issue. The story then takes an emotional turn, ending in a heartwarming reunion dinner that highlights the unbreakable bonds of family.

To further commemorate the CNY celebrations, the home improvement retailer also launched their very first Chinese New Year dance-themed music video, “Ular-lar" in 2025, inviting Malaysians to get creative and join in the fun with a dance challenge on social media to win prizes while spreading the festive joy.

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