THE National Film Development Corporation (Finas) has endorsed a proposal requiring recipients of the Creative Content Fund and Film Production in Malaysia Incentives (FIMI) to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF), aiming to ensure employee welfare and enhance industry professionalism.
Finas chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib highlighted that this initiative not only reflects a production company's responsibility towards its workers, but also fortifies its reputation among investors.
"A responsible production company contributes to EPF, ensuring that projects appear well-organised and secure," he told 'Berita Harian'.
Azmir explained that investors prioritise worker welfare and project security, which includes proper contracts, insurance, and adherence to legal requirements.
"For any investor, the first concern is whether the project is safe. Safety means workers' welfare is protected.
"There are contracts and insurance in place, mitigating risks of disruption, such as accidents during filming.
"This is crucial because interruptions can incur additional costs."
Azmir was met at the recent memorandum of understanding signing ceremony between EPF and Finas at Menara KWSP in Kwasa Damansara, Selangor.
The event was also attended by EPF chairman Tan Sri Datuk Seri Mohd Zuki Ali and Finas chairman Datuk Kamil Othman.
According to Azmir, Finas has already initiated measures to encourage EPF contributions through the Creative Industry Management and Monitoring System (SPPIK).
Those registering for the Filming Authentication Certificate must meet specific criteria related to worker welfare.
"The SPPIK online registration form now includes requirements for crew members and artistes to have contracts and minimum contributions to both the Social Security Organisation and EPF."
While the implementation is not yet mandatory, Finas is actively encouraging compliance.
Azmir emphasised that international film producers who leverage FIMI incentives in Malaysia already follow similar procedures, providing a benchmark for local industry practices.
"For Hollywood productions, everything is accounted for — insurance, on-set doctors, contracts. We aim to elevate our industry to that level of professionalism."
Azmir acknowledged that smaller projects, such as television dramas or productions with limited budgets, might face challenges in meeting these standards.
Finas plans to focus monitoring efforts on these productions to ensure gradual industry-wide adoption.
"We recognise the budget constraints of smaller projects, but employees now understand their right to request EPF contributions. Producers, in turn, are increasingly aware of their responsibilities."
Azmir also shared insights from an EPF briefing, emphasising the importance of EPF accounts for freelancers in the creative sector.
"Freelancers can open an i-Saraan account, which offers substantial benefits. For instance, if they contribute RM3,500 this year, the government provides an RM500 incentive.
"This is a great starting point for those in the industry."
Finas plans to host town hall sessions and conduct roadshows to raise awareness and understanding of EPF contributions among industry players.
"God willing, we will organise discussions and tours soon to educate stakeholders on this initiative."