PETALING JAYA: The local creative industry should be given more space and freedom while still holding onto cultural values, says Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
"Young people and audiences desire an atmosphere that is freer and more open but this does not mean we must follow Western models.
"We must remain rooted in culture, values and morality but also be more open.
"If things are too suppressed and closed, I fear the national arts industry, especially film, will not succeed.
"The government wants to ensure there is a space that is more open so artists do not feel too pressured and restricted," he said when officiating the opening of Menara Finas here on Monday (Aug 24).
Anwar also said local films must be given greater exposure, especially among local youth.
He urged Finas to play a role to connect young audiences with cultural identity through film, adding that without openness and engagement, the industry risks being sidelined
Also present were also Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil, his deputy Teo Nie Ching and Finas chairman Datuk Dr Hans Isaac.
