#SHOWBIZ: Finas to kick off special project for veteran actors, crew

New Straits Times

20-06-2025

KUALA LUMPUR: Efforts to improve the welfare of veteran film actors are set to be enhanced by offering them well-paid job opportunities.
This commitment comes from the National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (Finas), which aims to collaborate with local production companies to implement the initiative.
Finas chairman, Datuk Hans Isaac, hopes this endeavour will help alleviate common complaints from veteran artistes regarding low pay or payments that don't reflect their hard work.
"Following discussions between Finas and the Ministry of Communications, we'll be launching a pilot project for a super telemovie drama where every person involved will be a veteran."
"This includes cameramen, audio technicians, editors, scriptwriters, directors, and actors."
"This project is funded by the Creative Content Fund (DKK) and, if successful, we will continue it in the future," Hans said recently at an event held in collaboration with the Malaysian Entertainment Journalists and Writers Association (WHAM).
Also in attendance were Finas CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib, and WHAM president Datuk Tengku Khalidah Tengku Bidin, alongside entertainment journalists from various media organisations.
Hans explained that the project will require producers to return 40 per cent of sales proceeds to Finas, ensuring the social responsibility initiative can be sustained.
"For example, we will provide producers with RM150,000 to create dramas. Producers must spend all of that money on the crew and cast, paying them amounts commensurate with their experience," he said.
"If a veteran actor plays the main character, they must be paid the rate for a lead actor. Producers need to remember that this project isn't for them to make a profit."
He continued: "If they sell this product to broadcasters, 40 per cent of the sales proceeds must be returned to Finas so that this project can continue on an ongoing basis."
Hans also mentioned that Finas will review the list of names of the actors and crew involved before the project begins to ensure that only veterans are employed.
When asked about the potential reception from broadcasters, Hans expressed confidence in the credibility and quality of veteran talent.
"I believe broadcasters will be interested in purchasing this product because most existing veteran actors are still in demand. However, not all actors involved will be veterans; we also consider character suitability.
"Who knows, if this drama receives a lot of attention and high viewership, it might change broadcasters' perspectives," he said.
Hans was appointed Finas chairman on March 26, succeeding Datuk Kamil Othman, who had held the position since Feb 24, 2023.
Previously, Hans was appointed to the same role by the then Minister of Communications and Multimedia, Gobind Singh Deo, on April 8, 2019, replacing Samsuni Mohd Nor, whose contract expired in March 2019. Less than a year later, he was reportedly terminated and relinquished the position on May 22, 2020.
In another development, Finas is advising film producers, especially newcomers, to join industry associations to expand their knowledge.
Azmir said that this would enable them to gain insights from experienced professionals regarding product marketing.
"I always advise film producers to consult the Film Producers Association (PFM) on matters related to film marketing," he said.
"Within the association, we have many individuals experienced in distribution and the Compulsory Screening Scheme.
Most new film producers only know how to make films but lack knowledge in marketing."
He added: "When they join an association, if they face problems with films being withdrawn from screenings or moved to smaller cinemas—which often relates to film quality—at least the association can help them advocate."
"However, if the association doesn't raise a fuss after receiving a producer's complaint, perhaps the film itself is problematic, and Finas cannot offer any assistance."