Creative freedom must be exercised with sensitivity to certain boundaries to ensure content does not undermine relations among Malaysia’s multiracial communities, said National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) chairman Datuk Dr Hans Isaac.
He said content creators should be mindful of the country’s unique social fabric when deciding how to tell their stories.
"We have freedom, but that freedom must be exercised responsibly because we have different races and cultures. Our country is very unique, and we need to understand certain boundaries,” he told reporters after launching Projek Sinema: Pencetus Aspirasi Filem Malaysia at Menara Finas on Sept 3.
Hans said producers had the creative right to explore controversial subjects, but should also consider their potential impact on society.
"Controversy can attract attention and may be used to gain ratings. That is the producer’s creative decision, and we respect it.
"But we must understand that we come from a country called Malaysia, with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds. There are many ways to be creative in telling stories without undermining relations among communities,” he said.
Hans said Malaysians currently live in harmony and this should not be disrupted by content that could create tension.
On Sept 2, streaming platform iQIYI and MIG Production, the producer of drama Madu Atau Racun, agreed to temporarily remove six episodes already released. All 12 episodes will be edited and reassessed before being considered for re-release.
The drama sparked controversy after several clips allegedly depicting same-sex relationships went viral on social media, drawing criticism over religious sensitivities and local cultural norms.
On the Projek Sinema: Pencetus Aspirasi Filem Malaysia, Hans said the 16-day intensive training programme offers 24 participants, selected from 49 applicants, hands-on experience in the film industry.
Upon completing the training, participants will be matched with production projects funded under the Creative Content Fund (DKK), allowing them to put their newly acquired skills into practice.
"We want the participants to be part of production projects. If we simply provide technical training without giving them the opportunity to apply it, I think we are wasting time and taxpayers’ money,” he said.
The programme covers idea development and scriptwriting, acting, directing and cinematography, as well as production, under the guidance of eight experienced industry practitioners.
Hans said Finas aims to serve as a bridge to help participants pursue their ambitions as filmmakers and produce quality works showcasing Malaysian stories, cultures and experiences.
Meanwhile, programme participant and Fether Post Sdn Bhd senior manager B.K. Durgashini Naidu said the initiative had given her the opportunity to gain deeper insights into marketing, directing, acting and scriptwriting, as well as the producer’s role in assessing a story’s potential.
"Production is certainly a business, but at the same time, I always think about the moral values we want to convey to society through a work,” she said. - Bernama
