THE National Film Development Corporation (Finas) has introduced the Script Development Fund (DPS) as its latest initiative to help the entertainment industry.
Finas chief executive officer (CEO) Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib said that the implementation of the DPS this month aims to advance the quality and amount of local scripts.
"This year, we are introducing DPS. It is not the same as our previous script bank programme, as this fund is aimed at producers or companies that have their own group of scriptwriters.
"If there's a good idea and they have entered and presented it at an international laboratory session, then they can apply for the relevant funds if the feedback is good.
"This is also for companies that already have ideas and have met with potential collaborators to develop their scripts. They can come and apply for our funds," he said in a recent 'Harian Metro' report.
Azmir had met with the Malaysian Film Association Federation to receive feedback on the DPS following discussions with investors such as Media Prima Bhd, Astro, and Golden Screen Cinemas.
He also announced that the International Marketing and Promotions Fund will continue again for this year with a few updates to broaden its reach to potential recipients.
"The latest is funds for us to send producers or applicants who have successfully entered into festivals overseas. They can apply for Finas funds to claim for travel or hotel costs.
"This year, we've opened it to applicants who presented at lab sessions and investors abroad as well," he said.
On another note, Azmir revealed that the Malaysia Film Festival will be held in early December.
"Various associations will be included this time, as the event also celebrates them," he said.
Among those present at the meeting were Creative Content Association of Malaysia CEO Datuk Mahyidin Mustakim, Persatuan Seniman Malaysia president Zed Zaidi, Malaysian Television Producers' Association president Datuk Jurey Latiff Rosli and Professional Film Workers Association of Malaysia president Khalil Saleh.
Others also there included Professional Post Production Association chairman Isazaly Mohd Isa, Film Directors' Association of Malaysia deputy chairman Khir Mohd Noor, Persatuan Karyawan Malaysia president Datuk Freddie Fernandez, Malaysia Professional Stunt Association president Mozalfa Faisa Mohamed and Malaysia Film Makeup Artist Organisation president R. Gunavathy.