Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Saifuddin Abdullah said that anyone wishing to shoot a video, whether it's a media organisation or an individual, will have to apply for licences before filming.

Several news outlets reported the minister making the statement at parliament on Thursday (23 July).

Saifuddin had said that under the National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) Act, anyone wishing to film needs to get permission from FINAS at least seven days before the shoot day.

"It is mandatory for film producers to have a licence and a SPP letter of acknowledgement, regardless of whether they are main stream media or personal media producing films for social media platforms Or traditional channels," he said, answering a question at the parliament.

Malaysians aren't happy with his statement

Naturally, Malaysians aren't happy with what the Minister had to say, especially about the part where he said even those making films for social media platforms having to get a licence to do so.




Every time there is a new person at the top, be it at FINAS or at the Ministry, there are talks of wanting Malaysia to make films good enough to win international awards, including the Oscars.

But with so many restrictions and red tapes for content creators, will this ever be possible?

Is it a wonder that many of the awards local filmmakers win internationally are for films made overseas and not here?

Let's hope the Minister and FINAS clear things up for us.