The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) has welcomed Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s call for greater freedom and space for local artists and filmmakers to express themselves.
FINAS CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib said the approach aligns with ongoing efforts by FINAS and the Film Censorship Board (LPF) to foster a more open and progressive environment for Malaysia’s film industry.
Menara FINAS Launch Highlights Industry Reform
Azmir highlighted that LPF’s censorship practices have become more lenient in the past two to three years, shifting toward creative freedom.
Instead of cutting scenes, films are now classified by age restrictions, allowing content to remain intact while ensuring children are not exposed to unsuitable material.
“For the 18 and 16 classifications, they no longer cut scenes, but instead allow the films to be screened while stipulating that children cannot attend. That is a progressive step,” he said at the opening of Menara FINAS Damansara.
However, Azmir stressed that creative freedom must not compromise Malaysia’s cultural values and national identity.
He emphasized that these elements should remain central to local filmmaking, especially as Malaysian films increasingly aim for international audiences. “The focus is on cultural aspects and identity, so we can develop content that can be exported and appreciated globally,” he added.
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