FFM 25 seems off to a good start despite its surprise announcement

26 Oct – The National Film Development Corporation (FINAS), which will be organising the Malaysia Film Festival 25 (FFM25), is under no pressure when it comes to preparations to make the prestigious event a success despite the event taking place in less than two months time.

FINAS Chariman, En. Mohd Naguib Razak had not expected the festival to be held again this year and hopes that its continuation will garner support from all quarters, especially from the Malaysian Artistes Association (Seniman) as well as individual artistes.

"I am confident that the event will be smooth-running with the help of various parties, including the association, even though the announcement for FFM25 came quite suddenly."

Naguib also promises a better event this year by improving in terms of nominations, awards, registration, and organising.

"This time, I really want nominations and judging to be conducting in a transparent manner. All nominations are required to meet with every terms and conditions stated for FFM25"

"Besides that, I will ensure that programmes presented at the event are of good quality so as to evoke a positive response to this prestigious festival."

"Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa" was the big winner at last year's FFM

FFM25 will be held on December 30 at the Merdeka Hall, Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), Kuala Lumpur and themed, "Celebrating Silver and Inspiring Gold" (Merayakan Perak Mengilhamkan Emas)

This year, about 75 feature films screened from 27 October 2011 to 30 October 2012 are eligible to participate, but only 25 films will be selected for the finals.

FFM, which will soon be 25 years old, has been reforming various aspects of the film industry in Malaysia in order to further expand the field.

When enquired about the latest nominations, Naguib replied that the nominations remain the same but new nominations will be considered if there is a positive response to participation.

"In terms of additional nominations, I am not promising anything for now, we must look at the number of entries first before announcing any increase in the category," he told reporters at the launch of FFM 25 at Intercontinental Hotel, KL yesterday afternoon.

In addition to feature films, FFM 25 will also play short films and documentaries. The closing date is 2 November 2012.

Also launched at the same event is the official website for FFM 25, where those interested can log onto at www.ffm.my.