Kuala Lumpur:The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) has unveiled significant changes to the judging process for the 35th Malaysian Film Festival (FFM35), incorporating former winners to evaluate the 'Top 5' nominees in each category.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the new format, introduced by FINAS chairman Datuk Dr Hans Isaac, aims to align with the aspirations of the local film industry and enhance transparency in the judging process. The involvement of past FFM winners in assessing nominees ensures that industry peers have a direct role in selecting the winners.

The announcement was made during the FFM35 Top 5 nominees launch event, officiated by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching at Menara FINAS. The event was attended by prominent figures including Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, Deputy Secretary-General Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil, and FINAS CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib.

FFM35 will feature over 80 local films and is scheduled to take place at Istana Budaya on November 21, with a live broadcast on RTM TV2. The Best Film award winner will receive RM1 million in Digital Content Fund support to promote the creation of high-quality films.

Dr Hans Isaac also expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his support of the creative sector in the upcoming Budget 2027, particularly regarding entertainment duty cuts and other incentives. These initiatives are expected to motivate the local film industry to elevate Malaysian films to the international arena.

Azmir added that Istana Budaya was selected as the venue for its historical significance and increased interest from viewers wishing to attend the festival. FINAS aims to see at least four to five Malaysian films achieve international market success next year with the support provided.