The Malaysian film industry recorded impressive growth as local films attracted 7.55 million admissions to cinemas from January to July 2026, surpassing the 6.94 million admissions for Hollywood films during the same period.
The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) in a recent statement said that the figure shows a difference of approximately 610,000 audience admissions (8.8%), indicating an increase in public confidence and interest in local works.
That achievement, according to Finas, also reflects the industry's ability to produce quality content that resonates with the tastes, culture and experiences of Malaysian viewers.
"That achievement is reinforced by the success of five local films that recorded collections exceeding RM10mil, namely Tarung: Unforgiven, with RM23.59mil; Polong (RM14.98mil); Libang Libu (RM14.16mil); Malaikat Malam (RM12.23mil); and Ah Beng vs Liang Po Po (RM10.04mil).
"Finas sees this positive development driven by a significant improvement in the quality of scripts, acting and the overall process of local film production compared to before," according to the statement.
In this regard, Finas hopes that this momentum will continue to be strengthened through strategic cooperation involving the government, industry practitioners, exhibitors, distributors and the private sector to ensure the national film industry develops sustainably.
Finas will continue to strengthen the national film ecosystem through content development, enhancement of talent competencies, technology application, expansion of financing access and empowerment of promotion and distribution of local works.
At the same time, Finas expresses its appreciation to the audience for its support and trust.
"This support serves as a source of motivation for industry practitioners to continue creating and producing higher quality and more competitive local films.
"The achievements during the first seven months of 2026 provide a positive foundation for the Malaysian film industry to continue growing, create economic value, and strengthen the position of local content in both domestic and international markets," the statement added. – Bernama
