KUCHING, Sept 9: Sarawak filmmakers should strive to produce more quality productions to tap into the profitable creative industry not only domestically but internationally.
Angkatan Zaman Mansang (Azam) Sarawak deputy chairman Datuk Norhyati Ismail said local filmmakers, especially those in the creative department, need to intensify their efforts to upgrade their knowledge and skills in the field.
She was officiating at a half-day Masterclass Programme with Filmmakers organised by Azam Sarawak and the US Embassy Kuala Lumpur in collaboration with TV Sarawak (TVS) in Kuching, today.
Norhyati, who is also the Chairman of Sarawak Media Group (SMG) pointed out that an essential skill in filmmaking is storytelling or writing, which local filmmakers should strive to master to be on par with the best filmmakers in the industry.
Meanwhile, the Cultural Affairs Officer of the US Embassy, Kuala Lumpur Katherine Diop highlighted the importance of filmmaking in terms of digital economy and economic empowerment and telling stories.
“I would also like to encourage all of you as filmmakers to continue to help Sarawakians to tell their stories using the art of filmmaking,” added Katherine.
About 100 participants attended the programme that featured award-winning documentary filmmakers from the US, namely Izzy Chan, whose interests include looking at life-changing cultural and social trends, and Carolyn Jones who specialises in telling stories that shed light on issues of global concern.
Participants comprised private and independent production houses, personnel of government and government linked agencies, broadcasters, social media influencers and, university lecturers & students in creative arts, and films.
For more information, contact Azam Sarawak Communications Officer Hakim Junaidi at 082-411799 or email hakim@azam.org.my. — DayakDaily
