Its chairman Hans Isaac said Finas was in the process of improving existing policies and regulations to ensure fairness and equal opportunities for all producers.
“We’ve discussed this, and I’ve also contacted Afdlin Shauki to get clarification on the allegation. From Finas’s side, our duty is to ensure every process is conducted transparently with proper procedures and governance.
“The public knows we have processes, and we always comply with them. It’s just that things change over time – for example, we used to shoot using 35mm film, but now it’s digital.
“The same goes for the compulsory screening process and film placement – all these are part of improvement efforts,” Bernama reported him as saying.
Last week, a news portal reported Malaysian Film Directors Association president Afdlin’s claim that a “hidden hand” or cartel dictated the success of local films, including prime screening slots, promotions and distribution.
He said the situation forced filmmakers to “gamble with fate” because the quality of their work was no longer the main determining factor.
Communications minister Fahmi Fadzil also said on Saturday that the government was committed to tackling unfair practices in the film project application and approval process.
He said the ongoing internal restructuring at Finas is expected to create a fairer and more transparent environment for the local film industry.
“Since I stepped into the ministry and started overseeing Finas, we have been working to dismantle not necessarily a cartel, but the long-standing attitudes and practices that have persisted. This process is ongoing,” he said.
Commenting on the emergence of alternative platforms, including a new app developed by director Erma Fatima, Hans described it as a positive development as it opened more opportunities for producers to distribute their works.
“Anyone can do business and showcase their content. We (Finas) will not stop them as long as they follow the set regulations. If they do not violate the conditions, Finas will continue to provide support,” he said.