{
  "id": 14214897,
  "title": "#SHOWBIZ: MAFE welcomes entertainment duty exemption for local films in Federal Territories",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/showbiz-mafe-welcomes-entertainment-duty-exemption-for-local-films-in",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-10-13T14:06:30.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2026/10/1554723/showbiz-mafe-welcomes-entertainment-duty-exemption-local-films"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "The Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors (MAFE) has expressed its approval for the Prime Minister's 2027 Budget proposal that will exempt local film screenings and theatre performances in the Federal Territories from entertainment duty, commencing from January 1, 2027. In a recent announcement, MAFE emphasized the significance of this decision in bolstering Malaysia's creative industries and nurturing the local film ecosystem. Upon hearing the Prime Minister's call for similar exemptions in all states, MAFE intends to collaborate with state governments to promote nationwide implementation. The association is eager to partner with the Ministry of Communications and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) to ensure a seamless transition. MAFE and its members are dedicated to advocating for local content and fostering the ongoing expansion of Malaysia's film industry. Furthermore, the 2027 Budget will inject a substantial RM130 million into Malaysia's creative arts sector, aiming to strengthen the local film, music, and digital content landscape. This funding package includes incentives tailored for both local and international filmmakers who decide to film in Malaysia, with additional bonuses reserved for projects that highlight and honor the nation's culture and identity. Notably, dedicated support will be provided to local animators to develop 20 fresh original character brands, enabling Malaysian stories to captivate a global audience.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors (MAFE) has welcomed the Prime Minister’s 2027 Budget announcement that local film screenings and theatre performances in the Federal Territories will be exempt from entertainment duty, starting Jan 1, 2027.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}