Kuala lumpur: A total of 183 film industry practitioners have received benefits amounting to RM144,900 through the 'Ziarah MADANI@Finas' initiative, which has been in operation since 2023. Deputy Minister of Communications Teo Nie Ching highlighted that this welfare initiative, driven by the National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (FINAS), is designed to support actors and artists in the creative industry, focusing on their welfare and well-being.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the initiative began with eight recipients receiving a total of RM10,900 in its first year. This number increased to 49 recipients with a contribution of RM47,000 in 2024, and last year, 123 recipients received assistance totaling RM82,000. As of March 10 this year, three recipients have already received a contribution of RM5,000. FINAS aims to extend this contribution to at least 100 actors or artists this year.

Teo encouraged those in need of assistance to reach out to FINAS, asserting that both the Ministry of Communications and FINAS are committed to helping creative industry practitioners. She shared these remarks with reporters following the Ziarah Seni MADANI@FINAS event at Kota Media, Angkasapuri.

In a compassionate gesture, Teo also personally contributed to actress Amyza Aznan, who recently lost her eldest son to stage three lung cancer. Amyza, who is also dealing with her second son's bone cancer diagnosis, received support from Teo, who hoped that the meeting would provide Amyza with strength and encouragement.

Amyza, known for her roles in films like Reversi and Mat Bond Malaya, expressed deep gratitude for the support she received, acknowledging the moral support from Teo, FINAS, and others during this challenging time. Although she is still processing her grief, Amyza appreciated the care shown to her and her family.