 For the other lead role of Hang Tuah, established actor and singer M. Nasir, who had portrayed the character in the film, could not commit to the musical due to other projects.Even with rehearsals in full swing and a confirmed date at the Istana Budaya, a replacement had not been found.Eventually, Stephen Rahman-Hughes, a Malaysian-born West End actor was chosen on the recommendations of TV3 chairman Farid Ridzuwan CEO of TV station and Kavita Kaur to the production team.