KUALA LUMPUR: In view of the ongoing global Covid-19 pandemic and the extension of the Movement Control Order (MCO) until April 14, the Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors (MAFE) has decided to keep local cinemas shuttered.
In a press statement released today, MAFE said that keeping cinemas here closed is in line with the efforts of film exhibitors across Asean, which have and are also closing their cinemas to prevent mass gatherings to control the spread of Covid-19.
This includes exhibitors in Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, the Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar and Singapore.
Also, due to the postponement of the release of films worldwide due to the pandemic, there would be few movies to screen.
"There are no new movies available from both local and international markets due to the postponement of movies initially scheduled for release between April and June 2020.
"This has not been an easy time for film exhibitors, but it is a moment for us to come together more than ever. Malaysia is at a turning point with the coronavirus and it will take all our combined efforts to control the spread of Covid-19.
"While we intend to reopen the cinemas as soon as circumstances allow, we believe it is important that we put the nation’s interests, as well as our customers’ and employees’ health and well-being first.
"We have provided Malaysians a place to escape, indulge, and be entertained over the years, and we will be there again to welcome you back as soon as it is safe to do so.
"Together, we will overcome these challenging times, so let’s stay safe and do our part for Malaysia," it said.
It added that MAFE members participating in the extended closure are Golden Screen Cinemas Sdn Bhd, Berjaya-GSC Sdn Bhd, TGV Cinemas Sdn Bhd, MM2 Screen Management Sdn Bhd (mmCineplexes) and Lotus Five Star Cinemas (M) Sdn Bhd.