The Japanese superhero is beloved around the world, even in Malaysia: this was evident during the launch of “Ultraman: The Ultra Tour” at Sunway Pyramid here on Thursday. Attended by 270 excited fans, many in themed costumes, it resulted in an entry into the Asean Records for the largest gathering of Ultraman aficionados in the country.
The event also featured a thrilling live-action performance, which saw fans cheering on beloved heroes Ultraman Arc and Ultraman Blazar as they took on several kaiju (giant monsters), including the intimidating Shagong.
“I never thought I’d see Ultraman Arc and Ultraman Blazar together in one event, so this is amazing for me. Ultraman has always been my favourite hero because of his never-give-up attitude,” said fan Alif Lukhman.
“This was a great chance for us to see an actor from the show. I’ve loved Ultraman since I was young. He’s just so fun to watch, and he brings back good memories,” said freelance artist Wong Yinyi.
The launch was officiated by National Film Development Corporation (Finas) chairman Kamil Othman.
“As we celebrate Ultraman’s legacy here in Malaysia, we are reminded of the importance of fostering international collaborations to enhance the reach and impact of creative content,” he said.
“Intellectual properties like Ultraman have shaped global pop culture, and this event showcases how Malaysia can be a thriving destination for such partnerships.”
In the spirit of Ramadan, the event also saw two orphanages – Pertubuhan Kebajikan Rumah Pengasih Warga Prihatin and Persatuan Kebajikan Pusat Jagaan Rumah Kasih Harmoni Paya Jaras – being presented with charitable contributions of RM2,500 each.
The highlight of the day was an appearance by Japanese actor Yuki Totsuka, who portrays Yuma Hize/the titular character in the Ultraman Arc series.
The actor told attendees he enjoyed Malaysia’s curry laksa and nasi lemak, and looked forward to doing more sightseeing. He expressed his astonishment and gratitude to see so many Malaysian fans.
Speaking through a translator, Yuki told FMT Lifestyle that while he loved Ultraman Arc, he had a soft spot for Ultraman Ace and Ultraman Jack, the series he grew up watching.
“When I learnt that I was going to play Ultraman Arc, I was very happy. But I also realised I had a very big responsibility. Ultraman is a very rich and classic series that is beloved,” he said.
Asked about his favourite kaiju that Ultraman Arc never got to fight, Yuki mentioned Red King, who is only glimpsed taking on the hero during a short news report in the show’s opening. The actor considers the infamous monster to be “very cute”.
He added that he has not met other actors from previous Ultraman series but wishes to someday. “They are very great heroes, and I hope to be able to be like them, too.”
The Malaysian launch was a collaboration between Tsuburaya Fields Entertainment International, One Universal Production Sdn Bhd, and Sunway Malls.
If you missed out on Thursday’s excitement, don’t fret – you can still check out “Ultraman: The Ultra Tour” at Sunway Pyramid’s Blue Concourse until tomorrow.
It will then continue across six other malls, namely Sunway Putra Mall, Sunway Carnival Mall, Sunway 163 Mall, Sunway Velocity Mall, Sunway Big Box Retail Park, and Sunway Kluang Mall.
Fans can attend Ultra Heroes meet-and-greet sessions, have fun at an Ultraman-themed Inflatable Playland, participate in activities such as the Gigabash Game Demo, and enjoy a wide variety of exclusive Ultraman merchandise on sale.