10 hours ago
- Business
- New Straits Times
Fahmi: Red tape slashed with faster script approvals
PUTRAJAYA: The Communications Ministry's move to shorten the processing time for programme applications, including script approvals for international production companies, is a significant achievement for the ministry, said its minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
Fahmi said the reform marked a major step in reducing bureaucratic inefficiencies and boosting Malaysia's appeal as a destination for filming and media production.
"This is a proud achievement for the National Film Development Corporation, as script vetting is an important requirement for production companies intending to film in the country," he said here today.
The Communications Ministry is among three ministries recognised for successfully implementing reforms to reduce bureaucratic red tape, earning a special certificate of appreciation for the achievement.
Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar said the ministry significantly improved the approval process for foreign film scripts, reducing the timeline from 30 days to just seven, resulting in regulatory cost savings of up to RM2.4 million per production.
Fahmi also highlighted changes in other agencies under the ministry, such as the Central Agency for Application for Filming and Performance by Foreign Artistes (Puspal), which previously took longer to process event applications.
"The rollout of Puspal Guidelines Version 6.0 in April has led to streamlined procedures, particularly for concert organisation and filming activities.
"Whether it involves international artistes or foreign production companies, efforts to overcome bureaucratic hurdles must continue and be strengthened across all agencies and statutory bodies under the ministry."
He added that the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission would be among the next entities under review, especially in relation to licensing processes.
