Anwar wants greater freedom in the arts, particularly filmmaking

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has called for increased freedom within the creative arts, specifically in filmmaking, during a recent event marking the opening of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) Tower. The prime minister emphasized that this push for greater artistic freedom should be balanced with maintaining cultural values and morals.

Anwar stressed that while a more open approach is desirable for societal progress, it should not involve blindly adopting foreign models. He expressed concerns that over-restrictive measures could hinder the industry's development, particularly filmmaking.

Anwar stressed that the arts industry, in particular cinema, serves a dual purpose beyond mere entertainment. Films are integral to a country’s cultural heritage and identity. To address this, the Prime Minister urged Finas to be more proactive in introducing younger generations to Malay films, including classic works, such as those by P Ramlee.

He pointed out that his grandchildren's enthusiastic response to old Malay films demonstrated that younger audiences are not rejecting these cultural treasures but simply lack sufficient exposure to the historical and cultural significance of Malay cinema.