MAFE said the collapse of the cinema industry will threaten the livelihoods of thousands of Malaysians. — Picture by Yusof Mat IsaPETALING JAYA, Feb 22 — The Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors has questioned why cinemas have to remain closed during the movement control order when restrictions have been loosened for other recreational outlets such as gyms and spas.
“These forced shutdowns have gravely impacted the industry, resulting in countless job losses, permanent closures of cinema locations, and a significant downsizing of operations for all exhibitors across the board. “As a local filmmaker, we have been adversely affected by the Covid-19 pandemic which has staggered the productions of three films including, in which we have already invested more than RM20 million to produce.
MAFE has appealed to the National Security Council, the Finance Ministry, and the Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Commission for assistance in the past, including requests for an exemption or reduction of entertainment taxes for film exhibitors. “In times of distress, provides audiences with an affordable and safe venue for escapism, as with other leisurely activities like casinos, spas, group exercises at gyms, and individual sports such as golf.
PN Muafakat govt prefers rakyat to view the liberal non-censored Netflix.