Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – Malaysia’s National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) has sought to address public concerns following the Dewan Negara’s approval of the Malaysian National Film Development Corporation (Amendment) Bill 2025, stressing that the amendments do not involve the regulation of social media content.
The bill, which was tabled by Minister of Communications Datuk Fahmi Fadzil on December 18 and approved on December 19, is intended to update the regulatory framework for the country’s film and creative content industry in line with technological developments and the current digital content landscape.
According to FINAS, the amendments focus on three main areas: industry development, governance improvements, and the strengthening of functions and enforcement. The changes are aimed at creating a more professional, transparent, and competitive industry ecosystem, while reinforcing FINAS’ role as a regulator and industry facilitator.
FINAS also noted that over-the-top (OTT) and video-on-demand (VOD) platforms are currently exempt from licensing requirements, adding that the amendments are not designed to restrict creativity. Instead, the measures are intended to protect the welfare of creative workers and ensure compliance with the law in commercial filmmaking activities.
The agency said more than 50 engagement sessions were conducted during the drafting of the bill, involving industry associations, production companies, broadcasters, OTT platforms, higher education institutions, and relevant government bodies. These consultations were part of efforts to ensure the amendments reflect the needs and realities of the industry.
FINAS said it believes the revised legislation will contribute to the development of a more sustainable and competitive national film ecosystem, in line with Malaysia’s creative economy ambitions.
