Petaling jaya: The National Film Policy (DFN) 2026-2035, focusing on alternative funding models, expanded market access, and the adoption of technology, including artificial intelligence, is set to be launched later this year after obtaining Cabinet approval. National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib announced that the policy is nearing completion after a two-year engagement process.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, the DFN 2026-2035 encompasses more than 70 initiatives across five core pillars: Financing and Investment; Marketing and Promotion; Industry Collaboration and Technology; Human Capital Development and Management; and Governance and Legislation. Key priorities include developing alternative financing models, expanding market access, adopting advanced technologies like artificial intelligence, offering workforce training and certification, and strengthening intellectual property protections.
Azmir revealed that once finalized, the policy would be submitted to the Communications Minister for approval, then presented to the Cabinet as the final step before its launch. He highlighted that the new policy builds upon the previous National Film Policy introduced in 2005, following Malaysia's original film strategy established in the 1980s.
He added that the formulation of the National Film Policy 2026-2035 involved extensive consultation with industry players, stakeholders, government agencies, and relevant ministries to ensure the proposed initiatives do not overlap or conflict with existing policies and jurisdictions. The process involved collaboration with Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) and the National Academy of Arts, Culture and Heritage (ASWARA).
In the final phase, a copywriter will compile the document into a formal publication before submitting it to the Cabinet. Feedback from the recent engagement session focused on editorial refinements to clarify each initiative, including calls to outline the framework for cooperation between FINAS and industry associations in greater detail.
DFN 2026-2035 marks Malaysia's third national film strategy and its first legislative update since 2005. The policy aims to make Malaysia's film sector accessible to the public, fostering a dynamic, sustainable, and inclusive industry with greater international recognition. It also positions the film industry as an engine of economic growth, a platform reflecting Malaysia's multicultural identity, and a driver of national unity.