FINAS Channels Over RM2 Mln To Support Sarawak Producers' Creative Works

KUCHING, Aug 18 (Bernama) -- The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) has channelled over RM2 million in funding to producers in Sarawak to ensure local creative works can be showcased at both the national and international levels, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.

She said of the total, RM1.55 million was allocated under the Borneo TV Programme Fund, RM421,000 for the Post-Production Fund and RM139,000 for the Marketing and Exhibition Fund.

“In addition, the initiative also aims to enrich local broadcast content and drive strategic collaboration between industry players and broadcasters, while highlighting local identity through high-quality creative works,” she told reporters after presenting letters for these funds at the FINAS Sarawak office here today.

At the event, eight Sarawak production companies received Letters of Acceptance for the Borneo TV Programme Fund to produce a 90-minute telemovie or telefilm, to be aired on RTM or private television stations within a year.

The eight companies are Sahabat Qitmir Sdn Bhd, Broad Vision Solutions Sdn Bhd, Lightcube Studio Sdn Bhd, Reka Dinamik Sdn Bhd, Pixbugs Film Sdn Bhd, Ensyio Crates Sdn Bhd, Spektrum Cahaya Sdn Bhd and Apro Prima Sdn Bhd.

Teo said apart from the Borneo TV Programme Fund, FINAS also channelled the Post-Production Fund to three producers from Sarawak, while another producer received support under the Marketing and Exhibition Fund.

She said the existence of the special Borneo (Sabah and Sarawak) category allows producers to create works not only in the national language but also in local ethnic languages, thereby showcasing the cultural heritage of the states.

“This ensures local works can not only be showcased nationally but also penetrate international markets,” she added.

-- BERNAMA