FINAS Considers Funding Drama Series Featuring Veteran Actors
HULU KLANG: The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) is prepared to consider a proposal by actor AR Badul to establish a special fund for the production of drama series featuring veteran performers.
FINAS Chairman Datuk Hans Isaac said the proposal would be brought to the Ministry of Communications committee and FINAS board members for consideration, as it could potentially be implemented through the existing Veteran Stars Supertelefilm Fund (STAR).
“The proposal is very good. As I mentioned earlier, I will bring the matter to the committee for discussion.
“We have the STAR Fund, which is allocated from the industry’s annual budget. So, perhaps the fund could be adapted to accommodate the drama series format,” he said when met at the National Veteran Artists Tribute and Appreciation programme held in conjunction with the 35th Malaysia Film Festival (FFM35) on Wednesday.
Hans added that such a project could potentially bring together more veteran actors in a single production, ensuring that their talent and experience continue to benefit the local entertainment industry.
“If we turn it into a drama series project, perhaps 10 to 15 veteran actors could be involved in a single production. When there is a good proposal, we should not dismiss it. Instead, we should consider it and try to implement it,” he stressed.
Earlier today, Badul proposed that the government consider allocating dedicated funding for the production of long-running drama series focusing on the involvement of veteran actors.
Badul believed that although existing telefilm production initiatives provided opportunities for veteran performers to continue their careers, the number of actors who could be featured in each production remained limited.
“If we create a drama series with a large number of episodes, it would provide greater opportunities. Dozens of veteran actors could be given roles depending on the suitability of the storyline.
“These veteran performers remain strong in spirit and still have the energy and deep passion to perform in front of the camera.
“We greatly appreciate all forms of support and concern from the public, but what matters most to those of us in the entertainment industry is the opportunity to continue working and contributing our talents for as long as we are needed,” he said.
Badul and veteran actress Norlia Ghani have been invited to the National Veteran Artists Tribute and Appreciation programme in conjunction with FFM35, which is scheduled to take place on November 21.
Utusan