Kuala lumpur: The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) will organize town hall sessions with creative industry stakeholders to ensure inclusivity in the job market amid the sector's ongoing growth. Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, the chief executive officer of FINAS, emphasized the importance of these sessions in understanding the challenges faced by industry crews and gathering direct feedback, particularly in light of the rapid shifts in business models and technology within the creative sector.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, despite data indicating an increase in job opportunities through various initiatives, including international projects and digital platforms, certain individuals continue to face employment challenges. Azmir Saifuddin stressed the need for a comprehensive approach to identify and assist those who remain unemployed. He highlighted the necessity of collaboration with associations to address these concerns, as he spoke to the media following a memorandum of understanding signing between FINAS and the Multimedia University (MMU).
Azmir Saifuddin responded to claims from some artistes discouraging young people from joining the industry due to alleged lack of job opportunities. He pointed out that field observations reveal a thriving creative industry, with numerous production projects ongoing in locations such as Langkawi and Johor, indicating sustained demand for industry labor.
He cited examples such as Astro's plan to produce and distribute approximately 20 films this year, along with additional projects from Media Prima and streaming platforms like Viu and iQIYI. Azmir Saifuddin noted that the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI) initiative has generated around 12,000 job opportunities over the past 14 to 15 years, demonstrating continuous sector growth.
Local crew involvement in international projects now stands at 70 to 80 percent, surpassing the 30 percent minimum requirement set since 2013. In animation, local workforce participation reaches nearly 90 to 95 percent. Azmir Saifuddin highlighted the industry's need to adapt to evolving business models, such as the shift to digital advertising and the rise of streaming channels, by enhancing workforce skills and competencies.
To support this, FINAS offers skill development programs like Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) and Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning (APEL) to help practitioners upgrade their qualifications and embrace new technological advancements. Last year, around 50 industry players engaged in a diploma program based on Recognition of Prior Achievement (RPL), allowing experienced individuals to obtain formal academic qualifications.
Furthermore, FINAS supports industry veterans through special funds and appoints practitioners as supervisors in projects funded by certain initiatives, providing them with monthly payments during the project period. Azmir Saifuddin reiterated FINAS's commitment to ensuring the creative industry's inclusive and sustainable development, aligning with the global industry's rapidly changing ecosystem.