Creative Content Fund: Two Films Blocked from Screening Over Unpaid Crew Wages
Minister’s Warning: Pay Crew Wages or Face Screening Ban
KUALA LUMPUR: Two films that received incentives from the Creative Content Fund (DKK) have been blocked from screening due to the producers’ failure to pay production crew wages, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said.
Without naming the films, he issued a stern warning to the parties involved, urging them to settle outstanding payments before their films are allowed to be screened.
"We have found that at least two films, which I will not name, have not paid their crew despite receiving the Creative Content Fund. As a result, we have blocked their screening," he told reporters at the 2025 National Artiste Day celebration.
"We have informed them that they must settle these payments first before they can apply for screening approval, especially under the Compulsory Screening Scheme," he added.
Creative Content Fund 2025: New Categories and Opportunities
In a related development, Fahmi announced that the Creative Content Fund for 2025 will open on March 24, offering five categories, including two new ones. The newly introduced categories are the Micro Drama Fund and Post-Production Fund, while the Marketing and Distribution Fund is being reintroduced. The fund also includes a dedicated TV programme fund for Borneo and a marketing fund for international participation and promotion.
Ammendments to FINAS Act 1981: Boosting the Industry
Fahmi, who is also the MADANI government spokesperson, said amendments to the FINAS Act 1981 are expected to be tabled in the upcoming Parliament session. The amendments aim to boost the industry while addressing current challenges, including welfare issues, content regulations, and developments in the digital landscape.
The Cabinet has, in principle, agreed to amend the act, considering the changes within the film industry, he said.
Strengthening Industry-Academia Relations
Fahmi also urged FINAS to examine various aspects, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in filmmaking, and to collaborate with educational institutions to ensure the industry evolves with new technologies.
Meanwhile, as part of efforts to strengthen industry-academia relations, seven higher education institutions received Letters of Intent (LOI) to pioneer strategic collaborations in developing a sustainable ecosystem for the film, television, and creative content industry.
Conclusion
The Creative Content Fund plays a crucial role in supporting the growth of the film and television industry in Malaysia. However, it is essential for producers to ensure that they pay their crew members in a timely manner to avoid any issues. The government’s decision to block the screening of two films that failed to pay their crew members is a stern warning to the industry to prioritize the welfare of their employees.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are the new categories in the Creative Content Fund 2025?
A: The new categories are the Micro Drama Fund and Post-Production Fund, while the Marketing and Distribution Fund is being reintroduced. The fund also includes a dedicated TV programme fund for Borneo and a marketing fund for international participation and promotion.
Q: What are the amendments to the FINAS Act 1981?
A: The amendments aim to boost the industry while addressing current challenges, including welfare issues, content regulations, and developments in the digital landscape.
Q: What is the purpose of the Creative Content Fund?
A: The Creative Content Fund is designed to support the growth of the film and television industry in Malaysia, providing financial assistance to producers to produce high-quality content.