State Local Government Committee chairman Chow Kon Yeow said the officers would help the film crews, not hinder them.
They would ensure compliance with guidelines and policies on filming in the state to ensure no untoward incidents, he added.
Chow said this after being asked about the recent mock grave complete with a headstone bearing the inscription “Danny Song” built at a 200-year-old cemetery, which was a Class I heritage site, by a Hong Kong film company. Heritage activists were in an uproar over the “sacrilegious” action.
The same company was also seen shooting a car chase scene at busy Campbell Street over the weekend.
“I think with many filmmakers choosing Penang over the years, it is a good thing for us. We welcome them.
“The state government and local council feel we need to help the filmmakers in their effort which will promote Penang.
“We will come up with guidelines for filmmakers. Whether they want to use our public facilities, close our roads, create accident scenes in busy streets and all that— all these will need to be regulated and coordinated,” Chow said at the city council here today.
He, however, did not comment on what action would be taken against the production company for building the fake tomb at the cemetery.
Chow said no new laws were required to regulate filmmaking as bylaws governing the present sporting day and cultural events were already in place and could be used.
A few production companies from Hong Kong have been shooting in Penang of late, especially in Batu Ferringhi, George Town and other places of interest.
China Press reported that Hong Kong actress Charmaine Sheh and a film crew were spotted filming in town.