Malaysia’s creative industry is making a bold step onto the international stage and the National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (FINAS) is determined to keep the momentum going.
In a recent statement with Bernama, FINAS chairman Datuk Hans Isaac reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to empowering local talents and productions to gain international recognition. This comes on the heels of growing success stories involving Malaysians in global film industries, a trend FINAS hopes to sustain through strategic support and collaboration.
“FINAS is very proud and fully supports the success of local production companies and individual talents who have succeeded in penetrating the international market. This success proves that our creative industry can be accepted and compete at the international level.”
Multi-Faceted Support for Local Talent
To realize this vision, FINAS has rolled out several key initiatives designed to assist and elevate Malaysian creatives. These includes:
- Creative Content Fund (DKK): financial support for promising film and TV content
- Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI): a rebate scheme to encourage filming in Malaysia
- Human Capital Development and International Market Participation Funds: to train and connect local talents globally
- Festival and Market Promotion Support: enabling participation at major global platforms such as Cannes, Berlinale and Busan International Film Festival
Beyond funding and exposure, FINAS is also actively collaborating with other government entities such as the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), foreign embassies, and international agencies. These collaborations serve as bridges for Malaysian filmmakers to access new opportunities and form international partnerships.
Among the recent Malaysian faces gaining international attention is actor Irfan Zaini, who secured a role in a Tamil film, along with Thalapathy Vijay. Previously, he starred in GOAT and now he is also a part of Jana Nayagan.
Irfan, who has already made a name for himself in the local entertainment scene, described the opportunity as a major step forward, not only for his career but also for Malaysia’s visibility on the global film map.
Looking Ahead for More Stars On, and Off Screen
FINAS envisions a future where more Malaysians follow in the footsteps of internationally celebrated figures like Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh and Henry Golding, not only in front of the camera but behind the scenes as well, from directors to editors, producers to scriptwriters.
By nurturing talent, offering financial support, and building global bridges, FINAS is positioning Malaysia’s creative scene as a dynamic force in global cinema.
Sources: Bernama
