FINAS Considers Entertainment Levy to Boost Local Film Industry

The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) is exploring the implementation of an entertainment levy to bolster the development fund for the local film industry. This initiative aims to create a sustainable financial stream to support the growth and enhancement of Malaysian cinema.

FINAS is currently in discussions regarding the specifics of this potential levy. The corporation is looking at mechanisms that could generate consistent revenue, which would then be channeled into the industry's development fund. The goal is to provide a stable financial foundation for filmmakers and production companies.

As a reference, South Korea has already implemented a similar system. The Korean government mandates a 3% levy on the price of every cinema ticket sold. These collected funds are then allocated to the country's Film Development Fund, effectively supporting the advancement of its national film industry. FINAS is examining such international models to inform its own potential policy.