21 Jul – Kota Kinabalu, Sabah will play host to the much-awaited annual film fest, 22nd Malaysian Film Festival (FFM) from 5 to 8 August 2009. Taking place at Sabah for the first time, the ceremony will most likely make its mark as the biggest Malaysian Film Festival to date.

L-R: Datuk Suzannah Liaw, Mohd Zulkifli Ab. Wahab dan Mohd Mahyidin Mustakim with the new trophy award.

Speaking at the recent press conference, Director of FINAS, Mohd Mahyidin Mustakim reveals: "This year's awards night is to be held at the Dewan Canselor, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, which can accommodate to about 5,000 people. It is presumed to be the biggest in the festival's history since the usual venue, Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC), which can only occupy 3,000 people."

Themed 'Filem Malaysia Ke Persada Dunia' (Globalising Malaysian Films), the prestigious ceremony will be officiated on 5 Aug 2009 at Atrium 1 Borneo Hypermall and will premiere two local films on opening night. Mahyidin adds, "This year's opening night will be different as ten awards will be given including Best Theme Song Award and Box Office Award among others."

Members of the public who would like to witness the awards night can obtain the entry passes from the festival committee at Novotel Hotel 1 Borneo, Sabah commencing 1 August. For more details, contact FINAS at 603-41041300.