Sarah Lois Dorai is an award-winning Kelabit film director from Malaysia, whose work is deeply informed by community-led collaboration with indigenous communities and cultural practitioners. Her films primarily explore the intersection of womanhood and cultural continuity, reflecting a commitment to telling stories that are both authentic and socially resonant. Sarah is a passionate advocate for indigenous authorship, self-agency, and representation, both within the film industry and in wider society. She works closely with communities to ensure that their voices are central to the creative process, fostering dialogue and understanding through her projects. Her contributions have been widely recognised: in 2024, she was named one of Southeast Asia’s Top 5 Women in Media, and in 2025, she was included among WikiImpact’s 100 Malaysian Changemakers for her work in Arts and Culture. Through her films and advocacy, Sarah continues to champion the preservation of indigenous knowledge and cultural heritage, while highlighting the perspectives and experiences of women in her community and beyond.

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