Finas to tighten filming permit rules to ensure content compliance

KUALA LUMPUR: The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) plans to introduce stricter filming permit rules to ensure movies and TV shows meet content standards and do not damage society. This decision was part of three agreements reached during a recent meeting between Finas and the Malaysian Islamic Development Department (Jakim) aimed at improving oversight of film and television content.

The new requirements will be added to the Filming Authentication Certificate (SPP) Finas currently issues, which will now require producers to take into account religious sensitivities, cultural values, public interest, and Malaysia's legal system. Finas emphasizes that these measures are not meant to limit creative freedom, but rather to encourage responsible creativity.

Two dramas, Madu atau Racun and Cela, will move forward to the next stage. Jakim will review both productions with a panel assessment focusing on the overall story and content in line with existing guidelines. Madu Atau Racun sparked controversy after explicit scenes showing an intimate same-sex relationship between the main female characters went viral.

The drama's 12 episodes will need editing and resubmission to Finas for further review before they can be streamed again. Finas CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib stated that the six episodes that have already been released must be temporarily removed from iQIYI while the editing process takes place and an official decision is made.

Finas and Jakim, along with other related agencies, will also hold a meeting with industry professionals to discuss content governance and set guidelines for responsible production. These actions represent Finas' and Jakim's commitment to strengthening content oversight while balancing creative expression with societal sensitivities.