Kuala lumpur: The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) hopes the film and creative content industry will continue to receive attention in Budget 2027 to strengthen the industry's value chain and enhance the competitiveness of local productions. FINAS chairman Datuk Dr Hans Isaac emphasized the importance of government support in sustaining programmes for industry development, which include production, marketing, post-production, training, and talent development.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Hans Isaac stressed that any allocation should not be perceived solely as funding for FINAS as an agency, but as a broader support for the national film ecosystem, which involves an estimated workforce of about 30,000 people. He highlighted the significance of maintaining and strengthening support for the film industry, which is crucial to spur economic activity, develop new talent, and enhance the competitiveness of Malaysian productions in both local and international markets. These remarks were made during the China-Malaysia Film Festival 2026, held alongside the 12th Xingtan Cultural Season.
Hans noted that FINAS is currently implementing several initiatives to support the industry, including the MADANI Youth Fund, Creative Content Fund, and National Citra Production Special Fund (CITRA), alongside marketing, post-production, and training assistance. He emphasized the need for periodic evaluation of existing assistance mechanisms to ensure their relevance amid technological advancements, changing content consumption patterns, and evolving business models in the creative industry.
FINAS is also exploring areas for improvement to support content production for digital platforms, focusing on works that fall within the scope of film activities and meet established eligibility criteria. Hans remarked that the changing industry landscape requires a more responsive approach, with any improvements to the funding mechanisms needing careful consideration based on industry needs, measurable impact, and good governance.
The Budget 2027 is scheduled to be tabled by Prime Minister and Finance Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on October 9. Meanwhile, Hans mentioned that FINAS is examining ways to optimize the use of facilities at the FINAS Complex in Hulu Kelang, Selangor, to support training, talent development, and the technical needs of the industry. This assessment includes the possibility of offering shared facilities for industry associations.
He stressed that any implementation would depend on feasibility studies, space availability, financial capacity, selection criteria, and approval from relevant authorities. Hans expressed the desire for FINAS's assets and facilities to be optimally utilized to support industry development while ensuring that implementation is carried out in an orderly and transparent manner based on actual needs.
In a related development, Hans stated that the National Film Policy is being refined through appropriate processes to strengthen the direction and competitiveness of the local film industry.