By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, March 5: National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) has proposed to Sarawak government in setting up a mini film studio like Iskandar Malaysia Studio (IMS) in Johor.
Finas chief executive officer Prof Dr Mohd Nasir Ibrahim said he has met up with the Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg recently who has agreed on the proposal.
“The premier had visited IMS before and he is convinced (that) with proper planning, Sarawak should be able to establish or have its mini film studio like IMS.
“To propose a mini film studio, we need to have a good ecosystem so that the film industry in Sarawak is developed properly,” he told reporters when met at the ‘Rajah’ movie gala premiere at a leading cineplex here last night.
Meanwhile, Deputy Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development Dato Gerald Rentap Jabu, who was the guest of honour at the movie gala premiere, welcomed filmmakers and producers to make Sarawak as its filming destination.
“On the creative part of this industry, we welcome filmmakers and producers to come to Sarawak as we are blessed with many scenes and venues for films to be created. It is also peaceful here,” he shared.
Rentap was also optimistic that the film industry in Sarawak has potential to be developed in the future adding that the State is never short of talents including those involved in the making of ‘Rajah’ film.
“I have spoken to Finas if we could have a film studio like IMS as they have the grants that could help us in this industry which have a huge potential,” he continued.
The ‘Rajah’ film depicts historical events of the first White Rajah, Sir James Brooke, who ruled Sarawak from 1841 until his death in 1868.
Directed by Michael Haussman, the movie stars Irish actor Jonathan Rhys Meyers who played James Brooke, alongside Hong Kong actress Josie Ho, British actor Dominic Monaghan as well as Malaysian heartthrobs Bront Palarae and Shaheizy Sam.
Among those present at the movie gala premiere were the film producer Rob Allyn, Ho, Bront, Shaheizy and Sarawakian activist Peter John Jaban who played a supporting role in the film. – DayakDaily
