The Malaysian film industry has secured investment commitments totaling RM486 million through the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FiMI) at MIPCOM 2025, the world’s largest content market held in Cannes last October, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced.
The investments are projected to create up to 1,500 jobs for local industry players and generate an estimated economic impact of RM1.66 billion. “I have directed the Malaysian National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) CEO and chairman to prepare next year’s strategic plan so promotional and investment-attraction initiatives can be executed more comprehensively,” he said.
The minister noted that the government has allocated RM110 million for FiMI in 2026. The incentive provides a 30% rebate for productions filmed in Malaysia, with an additional 5% rebate for projects incorporating local cultural elements. “FiMI is highly competitive. While many Southeast Asian countries offer attractive filming locations, Malaysia continues to compete strongly in the region,” Fahmi added.
He also clarified that the government has no plans to require filming permits or production certifications for influencers or podcasters, nor does it intend to introduce licensing rules for OTT streaming platforms at this time.
The Communications Ministry is currently updating the National Film Policy following amendments to the FINAS Act 1981. The revisions aim to strengthen industry governance, development, and enforcement without limiting creative freedom. “The amendment broadens regulatory scope to include new technologies, such as digital platforms, while subsidiary regulations will clarify protections for industry workers, covering welfare, standard contracts, job security, payment terms, and production safety,” Fahmi said.
“These changes ensure that regulations under the Act support FINAS’ role as the national film industry leader and as a catalyst for the development of local creative content,” he added.
