KUALA LUMPUR: Online media streaming will be part of the amendments to the highly-anticipated National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) Act, says Datuk Fahmi Fadzil.
The Communications Minister said the plan to include online media streaming in the act was due to changes in the way modern media is consumed.
“The way we consume media has changed drastically as viewing media through films is considered anachronistic and out-dated with no one using films to show media anymore.
“Instead, most media works are now consumed on mobile devices through streaming so this change is needed to be more aligned with the modern industry,” he said in his speech during the Raya Sama-Sama programme on Monday (Mar 17).
The programme itself, held at the Tun Abdul Razak Broadcasting and Information Institute (IPPTAR), saw the Ministry provide much needed case aid for 76 out-of-work local film artists and media practitioners.
Among the aid Fahmi announced included cash aid donations from Finas for the 50 artists and contributions from the Tabung Kasih@Hawana for the 26 media practitioners.
Tabung Kasih@Hawana was previously established during the 2023 National Journalists’ Day (Hawana) as an initiative by the Communications Ministry to support media practitioners and is managed by Bernama.
All the 76 recipients also received festive clothing donations as well as shopping vouchers from both Mydin and AEON Foundation Malaysia.
“This programme reflects the government's appreciation for the significant contributions of veteran artists and the important role of media practitioners in society even as times change,” Fahmi added.
