Local Film Earnings Hit RM162.89 Mln By June 30

KUALA LUMPUR, July 8 (Bernama) -- The local film industry has experienced a significant boost, with a box office collection of RM162.89 million as of June 30, surpassing the total earnings of the previous year.

Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said the amount was generated from the screening of 39 feature films, compared to RM125.28 million and RM102.66 million collected in 2024 and 2023, respectively.

She said one of the main contributors was the animated film Ejen Ali The Movie 2, which garnered RM55.2 million as of June 30, making it the highest-grossing local animated film in Malaysia.

"The animated film Ejen Ali The Movie 2 not only captured the attention of the local audience but also made a splash in Indonesian cinemas, drawing 200,000 viewers in its first week of screening. This proves that our content has now reached an international standard," she said during the first press conference for the 34th Malaysian Film Festival (FFM34) here today.

Also present were the Communications Ministry's deputy secretary-general (Strategic Communications and Creative Industry), Nik Kamaruzaman Nik Husin, National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) chairman Datuk Hans Isaac, and FINAS chief executive officer Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib.

On FFM34, Teo stated that over 60 films are expected to compete across 30 categories, adding that the submission of entries opens from today until July 18.

According to Teo, FFM34 will feature the Best Action and Stunt Award, a new category to honour the dedication of industry professionals in the action genre.

"Local action film productions have shown improvements in both technical aspects and safety standards, along with strong viewing appeal. This category is introduced to recognise the courage and professionalism of production teams and stunt performers who are often at the forefront of high-risk scenes," she said.

Teo said FFM34 is not just an awards event, but a strategic platform to strengthen cultural diplomacy, open up investment opportunities, and expand the national film industry's network.

She also urged industry players, including directors, producers, writers, technical teams, associations, and strategic partners, to work together to strengthen the country's film ecosystem.

"I am confident that FFM34 will continue to serve as a vital platform to uplift local works, expand global market reach, and showcase Malaysian talent on the international stage," she added.

Organised by FINAS, FFM34 will take place at the Seri Angkasa Auditorium, Angkasapuri Kota Media, on Nov 8, carrying the "Karya Kreatif, Sinema Dinamik" theme.

-- BERNAMA