KOTA KINABALU: The state government welcomes any proposals from production companies to develop the film industry in Sabah.
Assistant Resource Development and Information Technology Minister Datuk Jainab Ahmad Ayid said there were various short-term and long-term programmes funded by the government that could be proposed for development in Sabah.
“As I said before, many producers from Kuala Lumpur are not willing to bring their shooting equipment to Sabah because of the high cost and there are no service centres in Sabah.
“However, the state government is willing to do something to solve this problem. That is why we need proposals from producers on how to arrange for this. We have the 1 Azam programme where we can train local talents in the film industry, and if we have the resources, I am sure there will be investors who are willing to be involved,” she said at the launching of the DVD film ‘Sailang Anak Kampung’ at Magellan Sutera Harbour here on Wednesday night.
She added that there had been many films shot in Sabah and it would be a positive start for the industry to be developed in the state.
The ‘Sailang Anak Kampung’ DVD is now available in all stores nationwide.
The film costs RM200,000 and seeks support from Sabahans to allow the producers, Juah Corporation and Empayar Bayu, to continue shooting in Sabah, and at the same time promote tourism spots in the state.
Among those who acted in the action and comedy film are Ebi Kornelis, Janrywine J. Lusin, Abu Bakar Ellah, Marlin Malalin, Rodih Madun and Abdul Rashid Mohd Deman.
Zul Azhari of Juah Corporation said both producers were looking forward to a positive response on the film so that the next step could be made to shoot more films in Sabah.
“I love shooting films in Sabah because of its friendly and helpful people, and the beautiful scenery all over the state. However, we need good response from film lovers to allow me to produce more films after this.
“There are many talents in Sabah that we can develop, especially with the undeniable talents who won several competitions and entertainment shows in Kuala Lumpur,” he added.
During the event, Abu Bakar Ellah shared the history of the film industry in Malaysia where many Sabahan artistes and directors were involved in its development since the 1970’s.
He believed Sabah is a very special state with special talents everywhere, waiting for the right time to rise and make Malaysia proud of its film industry.