CINEMAS nationwide will suspend operations beginning tomorrow in order to safeguard their business in the long run, said the Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors (MAFE).

The decision was made in light of the recent conditional movement-control order implemented in some states, which requires cinemas to remain closed, it said.

MAFE said there is also a lack of new movies released in the short term, which are essential to attract moviegoers back to the cinemas.

The cinema industry has been hit hard by the pandemic and has endured deep revenue losses due to a drop of admissions of up to 90% year-on-year, it said.

At the same time, operators have had to invest heavily on stringent SOP to ensure strong compliance and safety for customers.

“Closing and reopening cinemas is extremely cumbersome, costly and disruptive not only for cinemas, but also for our landlords and customers.

“To all patrons of cinemas in Malaysia we would like to extend our heartfelt thanks and gratitude for the unending support and solidarity thus far and we look forward to welcoming you back soon, to once again share the magic of movies on the big screen,” MAFE vice-president Cheah Chun Wai said in a statement today.

All cinemas across the country will be suspending movie screenings and concessions operations at their locations beginning tomorrow.

They will continue to monitor the situation and react accordingly as market conditions improve, he said.

Cheah added that the decision is in response to an increasingly challenging landscape.

“We believe it to be a necessary step for the long-term preservation of Malaysian cinemas, so we can continue our role of contributing to the social, economic and cultural fabric of our nation in the long run.”

The association is appealing for government assistance and rental support for the distressed industry as it grapples to with survival and recovery from the worldwide crisis.

Golden Screen Cinemas Sdn Bhd, Berjaya-GSC Sdn Bhd, TGV Cinemas Sdn Bhd, MM2 Screen Management Sdn Bhd (mmCineplexes), and Lotus Five Star Cinemas (M) Sdn Bhd are all members of MAFE. – October 30, 2020.