Reframing Malaysian fantasy literature in Puteri Bunian Bulan (2020)

Fantasy literature, as a creative writing genre combines elements of imagination, magic, and the supernatural to create worlds that transcend reality. While globally recognized works like those of J.R.R. Tolkien have been extensively studied. In contrast, Malaysian fantasy novels genre remains underexplored. Thus, leaving a significant gap in appreciation their unique narrative contributions and cultural contexts. This paper focuses on Puteri Bunian Bulan (2020) by Aliff Mustafa to explore the role of fantasy genre in Malaysian literature. The paper aims to investigates their function in shaping the narrative. Using a qualitative methodology the research investigates two key components such as the elements: system of magical and the elements of the prophecy and free will, which are identified as the centre to the novel’s plot. By situating these elements within the broader framework of fantasy literature, the study explores how these two elements contribute to the characters journey, the development of the fantasy world and the thematic resonance of the story. This research addresses the gap by showcasing the literary Malaysian fantasy novels.