THE 61st Asia Pacific Film Festival (APFF 61) is set to take place from Nov 29 to Dec 1 at the Wyndham Ion Majestic Hotel in Genting Highlands, Pahang.
Malaysian Film Producers Association (PFM) president Pansha said 25 countries will participate in the three-day event that will be held on a small scale but of high quality.
About 40 to 50 films will be competing for awards in 21 categories.
"Initially, the Federation of Motion Picture Producers in Asia Pacific (FPA) wanted to postpone the festival this year. But after many discussions, we decided to continue anyway.
"Although preparations are very short, we will make sure the event proceeds smoothly. We did not invite many guests, just around 500 people," he said in a recent report.
"We stand firm in our decision to hold this event, even if on a small scale, for the sake of contributing to the industry.
"The event was postponed for several years due to the Covid-19 pandemic. So, if possible, we don't want it to be delayed again.
"Last year, the APFF was held in Macau simultaneously with the Chinese Film Festival. This year, Malaysia has been chosen as the host," he said.
Pansha added that the FPA is trying to obtain sponsorship as it plans to invite famous Hong Kong actors to the festival.
"The event did not receive an injection of funds because the planning happened at such short notice. There was no time to apply for any funds."
Malaysian horror film 'Indera', starring Shaheizy Sam, Azira Shafinaz and Samara Kenzo, has been selected as the opening film for APFF 61.
Malaysia has hosted the APFF five times, the last in 2005.