KUALA LUMPUR, May 17 -- Mother Bhumi, written and directed by Chong Keat Aun and starring renowned actress Fan Bingbing, has finally arrived in Malaysian cinemas.

This local feature, which has screened in Japan, Italy and Singapore, is set in 1998 Kedah and is inspired by local folklore about a mysterious female shaman.

It also explores village life and rural communities, with a focus on the traditions and culture of rice cultivation.

Speaking to Malay Mail, Chong said the story of Mother Bhumi was inspired by fragments of tales he heard growing up in Kedah.

A childhood memory brought to the screen

"Mother Bhumi is based on my experiences since childhood because I was raised in my hometown surrounded by many shamans," he said.

"The ...