Kuala Lumpur:The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) is set to implement a new judging system for the 35th Malaysian Film Festival (FFM35), which will involve past winners evaluating the 'Top 5' nominees in each category.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, FINAS chairman Datuk Dr Hans Isaac explained that this new format aims to align with the aspirations of the local film industry, ensuring a more transparent judging process recognized by industry peers. The approach allows industry players to select winners from among their peers, enhancing credibility and recognition within the community.

The announcement came during the unveiling of the FFM35 Top 5 nominees, an event officiated by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching at Menara FINAS. The ceremony was attended by notable figures such as Communications Ministry secretary-general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah, Deputy Secretary-General Datuk Bahria Mohd Tamil, and FINAS CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib.

Hans Isaac also revealed that FFM35 will feature over 80 local film entries and will be held 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 stimulate the production of high-quality works.

Furthermore, Hans expressed gratitude towards Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for his attention to the creative sector in Budget 2027, highlighting proposed entertainment duty cuts or exemptions and other incentives. Such initiatives are anticipated to motivate FINAS and the local film community to elevate Malaysian cinema on an international level.

FINAS aims to have four to five Malaysian films enter international markets next year, leveraging the allocations and support funds provided. Azmir noted that Istana Budaya was chosen as the venue due to its historical significance and the growing interest from viewers wanting to attend the festival.