'Terbang' set opens Namron's eyes to better crew welfare

Veteran actor Namron, whose real name is Shahili Abdan, has observed several positive developments in the Malaysian film industry, with a particular emphasis on the improved regulation of crew welfare and working hours. The 57-year-old artiste shared that his recent experience filming Terbang in New Zealand provided him with a glimpse into a more structured system compared to Malaysia.

Namron noted that production days in New Zealand are strictly limited to 12 hours, a policy that Finas, Malaysia's National Film Development Corporation, has recently introduced as well. In contrast, Malaysian productions are now capped at 14 hours, a change that Namron believes could significantly enhance safety, health, and morale on long shoots.

In New Zealand, a typical day begins at 6 am, with filming wrapping up by 6 pm. Crews are required to pack their equipment by 5 pm, well within the 12-hour limit enforced by the Labour Department. Violating this limit could lead to legal action against individuals, not just the production company.

Namron expressed his hope that a similar culture of respecting working hours and crew welfare would take root in Malaysia. He accepted the role in Terbang without hesitation and took the standard fee without negotiation, solely to work with director Chiu Keng Guan. Despite the film's motorsports setting, Namron highlighted its patriotic message through the story of the Malaysian rally team led by national legend Karamjit Singh.

Namron emphasized that patriotic films don't necessarily need to focus on political or historical figures. He explained that while it's important to acknowledge the role of political and historical figures in the country's independence, it's equally crucial to remember that athletes and artists, including painters and performers, also contribute to representing Malaysia proudly.