Their support has sprouted the hashtag #KamiSokongKamil, after hot discussions on social media.

This movement follows a letter sent by Jurey Latiff Rosli, president of the Coalition of Malaysian Filmmakers’ Association (Gafim), to Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Said Keruak, expressing displeasure with Finas’ administration.

Among those backing Kamil are actor and director Afdlin Shauki, director Nam Ron and a host of actors and actresses, among them, Susan Lankester, Fatimah Abu Bakar, Bront Palarae, Sofea Jane, Iedil Putra, Cristina Stockstill, Rashidi Ishak, Zahiril Adzim, Sharifah Amani, Beto Kusyairy, Azhan Rani, Vanidah Imran and Dynas Mokhtar.

Finas’ corporate communications department noted that it was aware of the letter.

It said it welcomed all associations to discuss issues together in a harmonious manner and put aside individual interests for a succesful transformation of the film industry.

“Finas will continue to be open to provide service to any parties in the industry, via available diplomatic channels.

“We will not interfere in any internal agenda or conflict of associations or any individual,” it said in a statement to FMT today.

In a statement to Malay Mail Online today, Jurey said he had no intention to take over Kamil’s post when Kamil’s two-year contract ended in December this year.

He pointed out that he had consistently been a Finas critic in the past as he was concerned about the local film industry.

He said his letter to the minister, among others, included the issue about the income of support staff in the industry. He hoped to meet the minister after the Sarawak election to discuss the matter in detail.