Sarah Lois Dorai

Sarah Lois Dorai is a Sarawakian filmmaker and book publisher based in Kuala Lumpur. With deep Kelabit roots, she brings Indigenous and underrepresented stories to life through film and literature. She is the founder of Sceptre Seven Press, an independent publishing and media house focused on cultural preservation and multilingual storytelling.

Her notable directorial works include the award-winning documentary Songs of The Highlands (2025) a documentary on the role of music in preserving language & identity, as well as music video Warrior Spirit (2021) featuring Alena Murang.

Sarah’s filmography is recognised for its powerful themes of identity, and cultural continuity. Her works have been featured in both local and international festivals, including the Academy Award accredited film festival Hawaiian International Film Festival. As of 2025, she continues to direct, and mentor creatives through public speaking engagements and part time lecturing to foster understanding and inspire the next generation of storytellers.

To me, making an impact means to leave the spaces we occupy in a better state than when we first entered into it. Not for ourselves but for the future generations that will inherit it after us.