KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysia Film Festival returns after a one-year hiatus and is set to take place at Auditorium Seri Angkasa in Kota Media of Angkasapuri, here on Dec 7.
The 33rd edition of the event (FFM33), that recognises the achievements of the best Malaysian films, is exprected to see the participation of more than 100 films produced from Oct 1, 2022 to June 30, 2024.
"FFM33 not only aims to appreciate the work and creativity in the country's film industry, but also to strengthen the role of the film industry in the socio-economic development of Malaysia.
"The government is always committed to supporting the growth of this industry, not only as a dynamic economic sector but a tool to strengthen national identity and culture," said Deputy Minister of Communications, Teo Nie Ching, during the FFM33 press conference at the Digital Mix Stage Studio of the National Film Development Corporation (Finas), recently.
Based on data obtained via the Industry Incentive Unit and participation in the Mandatory Screening Scheme, Teo said that more than 100 films are expected to compete.
She added: "In 2023, a total of 56 local films recorded a total box office collection of RM98.8 million. Interestingly, in 2024, the box office collection reached RM87 million from 26 films screened until last May."
"The box office collection this year can be said to be almost equal to the total amount recorded for the previous year.
"So, the performance of local film box-office collections this year shows a very positive development."
Teo added that FFM33 is currently open for participation of local films that qualify until Sept 6.
The winner of the main category, which is Best Film, will receive a Digital Content Fund (DKD) grant amounting to RM500,000 similar to previous winners.