{
  "id": 19775628,
  "title": "#SHOWBIZ: More screen time for legends? Finas considers A.R. Badul's drama fund pitch",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/13/showbiz-more-screen-time-for-legends-finas-considers-a-r-baduls-drama",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-11-13T07:30:43.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "New Straits Times",
    "slug": "new-straits-times",
    "url": "https://www.nst.com.my/lifestyle/groove/2026/11/1576879/showbiz-more-screen-time-legends-finas-considers-ar-baduls-drama"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "News reports that the National Film Development Corporation (Finas) will examine an idea put forth by acting legend A.R. Badul to create a fund for drama series starring veteran performers. Finas' chairman, Datuk Hans Isaac, said the proposal would be presented to a Communications Ministry committee and Finas members for consideration. Mr. Isaac remarked that, with some alterations to the paperwork and production structure, the initiative could be accommodated within the Veteran Artistes Supertelefilm Fund (STAR). Speaking at the National Veteran Figures Appreciation Tribute held before the 35th Malaysian Film Festival, Mr. Isaac explained that a drama format would enable a larger number of veteran actors to participate in a single production and thereby have a greater impact. He noted that 10 to 15 veteran actors could be included in a drama series. Should a proposal be deemed promising, Finas should consider it seriously, he added. Previously, A.R. Badul proposed the idea of a fund dedicated to drama series for veteran actors, recognizing that although telefilms provide more opportunities, limited roles mean only a few senior artistes can participate. Mr. Badul expressed hope that broadcasters would produce long-running drama series featuring veteran artists on a rotating basis, allowing dozens of veteran actors to benefit from the storyline. He emphasized that veteran performers are resilient and still deeply passionate about their craft. During the tribute event, A.R. Badul and veteran actress Norlia Ghani participated in a forum moderated by Fedtri Yahya, ahead of the upcoming 35th Malaysian Film Festival.",
  "summary": "KUALA LUMPUR: The National Film Development Corporation (Finas) will consider a proposal by veteran artiste A.R. Badul to set up a fund for drama series centred on veteran performers.",
  "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."
}