THE National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) is hoping the government will also focus on the creative industry in Budget 2023 to elevate the local film industry to the international level.

Finas chairman and senator Zurainah Musa said an allocation from the government would not only boost the country’s film industry but also help create a healthy bond with other countries. 

“It is through films that we make friends, it is through films that we create relationships and the whole ecosystem wins as (films) play an important role in the economy. 

“If the creative industry is developed, it can help boost the economy and revenue,” she said to reporters at the second press conference of the Malaysian Film Festival (FFM32) in Kuala Lumpur today. 

On the proposal to introduce a Malaysian film festival at a smaller scale to promote local films to the world, she said it can be considered since local films have the potential to do well internationally.

“Not only can the films be shown at local cinemas, but also overseas ones, by providing English and Chinese subtitles. This is important. I will discuss this matter further,” she said. – Bernama, November 25, 2022.