If you are old enough, you must have been watching TV stations, and you must have watched at least some of these classic TV commercials.
Thanks (or no thanks) to the Internet and smartphones, everyone has their own screen now, and TV stations have gradually lost their influence just like the newspapers.
Brands used to invest hundreds of thousands to produce TVCs and buy airtime, but many businesses are now able to produce video content and promote on social media with flexible budgets.
Perhaps due to the lack of a media focal point, coupled with the abundance of online content, there aren’t many super memorable video commercials as compared to those from the past.
With a significant TVC production budget back then, brands with agencies were able to focus and unleash their creativity, be it developing characters, engaging big celebrities, or composing catchy tunes.
There are quite a couple of TVCs being aired in the 80s, 90s, or even 00s that can be considered classics, and you would’ve probably remembered some of them!
Remember the Yellow Man by Digi?
In this article, we are going retro and compiling a list of memorable TVCs being aired in Malaysia, with a mix of global and local brands.
Most of them are supported by catchy tunes, which is one of the important elements that are being overlooked nowadays.
Hopefully, you will get some inspiration as a brand marketer, and unleash your creativity in your next video commercial production!
1. Digi: I will follow you
During the telco war back then between the big three, Digi stands out with its Yellow Man and “I will follow you” tune signaling that you will get their reception wherever you go.
2. Trojan: Trojan baru
Perhaps inspired by the Green Giant by Leo Burnett, the Greek warrior comes to rescue your smelly clothes! And of course, that de-facto comparison with “Brand X” in those old-school detergent ads.
3. Gatsby: I can give you Gatsby
You would’ve known who is Takuya Kimura if you are old enough (admit it), and boy he got moves! There is another Gatsby TVC worth mentioning here – Clap your hair.
4. Pizza Hut: 1-300-88-2525
Before the Internet and the abundance of food delivery options, there weren’t many choices but the pizza is just a 1-300-88-2525 call away. Don’t be surprised that many can still remember this number today.
5. Ribena: Lemon meets blackcurrant
Produced in 2007, this is a decent 3D animation production with romance, aura, and music inspired by Bollywood. Back then, Bollywood shows were popular on TV – not just among Indians.
6. Spritzer POP: 不是汽水
Spritzer launched this brainwashing commercial trying very hard to convince you that POP is not a soda drink. Yes, we get it, POP is sparkling water without colouring and other artificial flavours.
7. Horlicks: Ho ho ho
Another TVC with a catchy tune, you might think that “Ho Ho Ho” is no longer by Santa but it is meant for Horlicks. A smart way to present the scientific ingredients even kids could understand.
8. Milo: Negaraku, Juaraku
Milo is like a national drink, you can be forgiven if you thought that Milo is a local product, especially with such a patriotic TVC the brand is showing to you. Milo is originated from Australia btw.
9. Nano Nano: Keenakannya sungguh luar biasa
One of the nostalgic candies, and they were not the only ones who invested in TVCs. Have you ever wondered how candy brands make so much money? They turn sugar into money.
10. Apollo: Enak selalu
This video commercial style is a bit too retro even though this was produced many years after Neil Armstrong had landed on the moon with Apollo 11. Not esthetic but memorable.
11. Gardenia: So good you can even eat it on its own
“Everybody loves it, you can taste how fresh is it. Uncle Slocumm’s recipe brings quality. Gardenia, so good that you can even eat it on its own.” This Gardenia song is actually quite nice.
12. Scott’s Emulsion: Membantu si manja membesar sihat & kuat
Back in the days when people still watch national television, many mums believed that a daily scoop of Scott’s Emulsion would boost their kid’s health. TVCs definitely played a role.
