Latest news with #HansIsaac
The Star
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Star
Finas committed to take local talents to international stage
Finas chairman Datuk Hans Isaac said the achievements of local actors in the foreign film industry are gaining prominence and need to be supported comprehensively. Photo: Hand Isaac/Instagram The National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (Finas) is committed to boosting the presence of local talents and works at the international level through various strategic initiatives, including support funds, participation in world film festivals and cross-government agency collaboration. Its chairman Datuk Hans Isaac said the achievements of local actors in the foreign film industry are gaining prominence and need to be supported comprehensively to become a catalyst for the development of the country's creative industry. "Finas is very proud and fully supports the success of local production companies and individual talents who have succeeded in penetrating the international market. This success proves that our creative industry can be accepted and compete at the international level," he said. He added that among the main initiatives provided by Finas are the Creative Content Fund (DKK), Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), human capital development funds and international market participation funds, as well as promotions and facilities for high-potential works. Hans said Finas also provides international synergy routes through participation in major world film festivals and markets such as Cannes, Berlinale and Busan, as well as establishing collaborations with agencies such as the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), embassies and foreign agencies as facilitators for local industry players. He said the long-term goal is to produce more successors to international industry figures such as Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh and Henry Golding, as well as behind-the-scene professionals. Among the local talents currently stealing attention abroad is young actor Irfan Zaini who has the opportunity to star in a film in India with the country's famous star, Vijay, thus making him one of Malaysia's new faces on the global stage. Irfan, who was previously active on the local screen, described cross-country collaborations as the best space to gain experience and bring Malaysia's name to a higher level in the film world. Commenting on the development, Hans described Irfan's success as a tribute to the industry and a testament to the abilities of local people if given the opportunity and support. "I hope Irfan will take this opportunity to bring glory to the country's creative industry and be an example to other industry players. Finas is very proud of his achievements," he said. – Bernama
The Sun
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- The Sun
FINAS boosts local talents for global film industry success
KUALA LUMPUR: The National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (FINAS) is intensifying efforts to elevate local talents onto the global stage through strategic funding, international festival participation, and cross-agency partnerships. FINAS chairman Datuk Hans Isaac (pic) highlighted the growing recognition of Malaysian actors abroad, emphasising the need for structured support to further develop the country's creative industry. 'FINAS is very proud and fully supports the success of local production companies and individual talents who have succeeded in penetrating the international market,' he said. Key initiatives include the Creative Content Fund (DKK), Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), and international market participation funds. FINAS also facilitates global exposure by collaborating with festivals like Cannes and Berlinale, alongside partnerships with MITI and foreign embassies. Young actor Irfan Zaini, now starring in a Tamil film alongside Kollywood star Vijay, exemplifies this push. 'Cross-country collaborations are the best space to gain experience and bring Malaysia's name to a higher level,' Irfan said. Hans praised Irfan's success as proof of local talent's potential. 'I hope Irfan will take this opportunity to bring glory to the country's creative industry,' he added. - Bernama
Barnama
20-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Barnama
FINAS Committed To Take Local Talents To International Stage
By Mohd Afiq Zulkifli KUALA LUMPUR, July 20 (Bernama) -- The National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (FINAS) is committed to boosting the presence of local talents and works at the international level through various strategic initiatives, including support funds, participation in world film festivals and cross-government agency collaboration. FINAS chairman Datuk Hans Isaac said the achievements of local actors in the foreign film industry are gaining prominence and need to be supported comprehensively to become a catalyst for the development of the country's creative industry. "FINAS is very proud and fully supports the success of local production companies and individual talents who have succeeded in penetrating the international market. This success proves that our creative industry can be accepted and compete at the international level," he told Bernama. He said among the main initiatives provided by FINAS are the Creative Content Fund (DKK), Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), human capital development funds and international market participation funds, as well as promotions and facilities for high-potential works. Hans said FINAS also provides international synergy routes through participation in major world film festivals and markets such as Cannes, Berlinale and Busan, as well as establishing collaborations with agencies such as the Ministry of Investment, Trade and Industry (MITI), embassies and foreign agencies as facilitators for local industry players. He said the long-term goal is to produce more successors to international industry figures such as Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh and Henry Golding, as well as behind-the-scene professionals. Among the local talents currently stealing attention abroad is young actor Irfan Zaini who has the opportunity to star in a film in India with the country's famous star, Vijay, thus making him one of Malaysia's new faces on the global stage. Irfan, who was previously active on the local screen, described cross-country collaborations as the best space to gain experience and bring Malaysia's name to a higher level in the film world.
New Straits Times
20-06-2025
- Entertainment
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Finas to kick off special project for veteran actors, crew
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."
New Straits Times
19-06-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
#SHOWBIZ: Hans Isaac: Finas to consider ending 'open door policy' for foreign films
KUALA LUMPUR: Following the disappointing box office performance of Blood Brothers: Bara Naga in Indonesia, despite it being Malaysia's highest-grossing film of 2025, the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) is considering ending its 'open door policy' towards international films. Its chairman, Datuk Hans Isaac, 53, expressed dissatisfaction with the lack of reciprocity in how Malaysian films are treated abroad, particularly in Indonesia. "I'm saying this not just as Finas chairman but also as a filmmaker. We open all doors for them to screen their films in Malaysia," he told reporters when met recently. "However, when we take our films abroad, although they grant us entry, the process, marketing, and structural hurdles are extremely challenging." "For example, in Indonesia, they complicate the situation, whereas here in Malaysia, we have always made it very easy," he added. Hans further said that if foreign countries make it difficult for Malaysian films to penetrate their markets, Malaysia should impose the same conditions on them. "If they offer five slots, we'll offer five. If they give ten, we'll give ten. It has to be on a first-come, first-served basis." "We can't reserve special slots for anyone. This is similar to the Mandatory Screening Scheme, which may also be considered for foreign films. However, implementing this will require processes, proposals, and a thorough review," he explained. To further promote local films on the global stage, Finas plans to launch a major initiative around September or October. "Finas will serve as a bridge between countries. We'll help film producers tap into larger markets, even beyond Indonesia," Hans added. "Let's just put it that way for now. If Blood Brothers failed in Indonesia in terms of earnings, I'll prove that their audience was wrong. Finas will take the film to bigger markets elsewhere. Discussions are already underway." It was previously reported that Blood Brothers, which grossed RM76 million at the box office in Malaysia, was screened in only 40 cinemas in Indonesia. Its director, Syafiq Yusof, also revealed that fewer than five Malaysian films were screened in Indonesia in 2024, whereas over 100 Indonesian films entered the Malaysian market with ease.
