Heart of the legend: amid, understandably, much hype and hoopla, Malaysia's most expensive feature film to date went into production last year. As it nears completion, Asia Image explores the making of Puteri Gunung Ledang.(film production)

Fables, myth, and legend have always been prominent in the history of Malaysia's film industry, none more so than the tale of Puteri Gunung Ledang, or Princess of Mount Ledang.

Set in the 15th century during the Golden Age of the Melaka Empire, the story tells of an outspoken Javanese princess who leaves her kingdom and sets off across the seas to Melaka for a rendezvous with her lover, the legendary Malay warrior Hang Tuah.

However, Puteri's brother forbids this love affair and instead, offers her to the Sultan of Melaka as the Sultan's consort. Hang Tuah, while much in love ...

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