Malaysian social media influencer and digital creator, Mohamad Sofian Abdullah, known as Sofyank, recently won the Ultimate VFX Challenge in Los Angeles.
The 26-year-old Kelantanese triumphed over fellow content creators from the United Kingdom and the Netherlands, earning accolades from both the judges and the global audience.
VFX Challenge champion
Organized by American internet personality Zack King, the Ultimate VFX Challenge required contestants to produce a magic video within 72 hours.
Despite being handcuffed for 30 minutes as “punishment”, Sofyank impressed the judges with his captivating visual effects.
The panel included Mythbusters personality and special effect designer Adam Savage, VFX artist and engineer Wren, and American content creator Kelli Erdman.
Sofyank has gained fame for his creative VFX videos, often featuring well-known figures like Paul Ruud (Ant-Man) and Jonathan Majors (Kang The Conqueror).
His work has also caught the attention of Hollywood stars, with renowned actor Will Smith once reposting one of his edited videos.
Couldn’t wait to tell Malaysians he won
In response to his win, Sofyank expressed gratitude and dedication to his supporters. “This win is not just for me, but for all of you,” he shared in a heartfelt Instagram post.
“The first time I got an invitation to go to Los Angeles, my heart felt very happy and I couldn’t believe I got this big opportunity. And when Zach King announced that I won the Ultimate VFX Challenge, at that time I just thought that I would like to convey this good news to everyone in Malaysia,” he wrote.
This was a well deserved win, considering he had to spend 3 minutes with his head locked in a box full of bugs and snakes to win an advantage during the competition.
Sofyank’s victory in the Ultimate VFX Challenge highlights the growing global recognition of Malaysian talent, following in the footsteps of Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh.
Congratulations from Anwar himself
Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil congratulated Sofyank on his achievement, with both noting the pride it brought to their nation.
Tahniah saudara @sofyank96! Pastinya daya kreatif mesti dicambah dan digalak terus. Pencapaian saudara Sofyan ternyata satu kejayaan yang membanggakan negara di persada antarabangsa! #MalaysiaMADANI https://t.co/S44VXVNtPs
— Anwar Ibrahim (@anwaribrahim) April 21, 2023
Anwar praised Sofyank for his success on the international stage in a tweet yesterday, while Fahmi commended his extraordinary talent and humble nature.
Tahniah buat anak muda, Sofyan, yang mengharumkan nama Malaysia (dan Lembah Pantai 😆) di persada dunia dengan menjuarai Ultimate VFX Challenge di Los Angeles. pic.twitter.com/GYu2WCJUSV
— Fahmi Fadzil 🇲🇾 (@fahmi_fadzil) April 21, 2023
Many proud Malaysians also congratulated Sofyank on his win in the video’s comments.
As a testament to his achievement, Sofyank’s competition video “Is This The Next Zach King?” can now be viewed on YouTube.
Watch the full video here.
