Frequently Asked Questions

How to apply for visas for cast and crew and how long it takes to obtain visas?

The procedures for the application of visas procedures are subject to the Immigration Department of Malaysia legislation and regulations in force from time to time.

Type of Film (Formats)

1. Feature film including theatrical documentary features, animated features, and IMAX;
2. A single episode programme;
3. A single episode documentary
4. Commercial
5. A series or season;
6. Short Form Animation;
7. Game shows and Reality shows.

Funding

The co-producer may apply for the relevant funding from FINAS and other government agencies. Please note that approval as a co-production does not mean that funding is automatic.  It means you are eligible to apply for the relevant funding to support your film, subject however it applies based on the terms and conditions which apply to such funding.

Application and Submission Document

Consists of 2 stages:

1. Application for Provisional Approval
2. A Statutory Declaration;
3. A Completed Co-Production Eligibility Tool;
4. Other Documents as Identified in the Application Form.
5. Application for Final Approval
6. A Completed Co-Production Eligibility Tool;
7. The Malaysian Co-Production Audit Report;
8. The duly executed Co-Producer’s Contract;
9. The copy of the finished project;
10. A Statutory Declaration;
11. Other Documents as Identified in the Application Form.

Who can be a producing partner?

All producers in Malaysia can serve as producing partners.

How does co-production work?

A film made under a co-production Agreement between two countries will be treated as a national film of those countries and can access all relevant benefits that are available for the local film industry in each country.

“Competent Authority” of the Program

National Film Development Corporation (“FINAS”) is the Competent Authority for Malaysia.

What is co-production?

Under the Program, a co-production is a film that has been made under an Agreement with a partner country and has been approved as an official co-production by the Competent Authority in each country. Malaysia currently has a treaty with Australia

What is the purpose of the international film co-production treaty program?

The purpose of the Program is to encourage production and foster relationships between local and international filmmakers.

How do Malaysian producers qualify for the Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI)?

Please refer to the Domestic Application guidelines.

How do I prepare for the Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI) application?

1. Please contact the Film in Malaysia Office (FIMO) at:

T: +603 7968 2137
F: +603 7968 1137
E: fimi@finas.my

FINAS Office, Petaling Jaya
Jalan Utara
46547 Petaling Jaya
Selangor

2. Read the FIMI Guidelines provided.
3. Refer to the FIMI Checklist provided.

Are visas and work permits required for foreign production?

Visas and work permits are required for foreigners. Information about this matter can be obtained at http://www.imi.gov.my/index.php/en/main-services/foreign-worker and at www.imi.gov.my.

How do foreign producers qualify for the Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI)?

Please refer to the Foreign Application guidelines.

What is required of foreign producers in order to film in Malaysia?

Follow these steps:

1. Communicate with FINAS for advise on proper filming procedures.
2. Appoint a Local Sponsor registered with FINAS to facilitate filming application and approval from PUSPAL on your behalf. You can find the list in Local Industries link (Local Sponsors).
3. Obtain approval from PUSPAL to film in Malaysia.
4. Should your project be eligible for the Film In Malaysia Incentive, please obtain application forms and guidelines to be submitted to the Film In Malaysia Office (FIMO).

What is the Film in Malaysia Office (FIMO)?

The Film in Malaysia Office (FIMO) is a department in FINAS that administrates the Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI).

What is the Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI)?

The “Film In Malaysia Incentive” (FIMI) is the Malaysian Government’s incentive for content development specifically for film, television and other screen production in Malaysia. The incentive, a 30% CASH REBATE on QUALIFYING MALAYSIAN SPEND, is available to foreign and domestic producers covering production and post production.

What is FINAS?

The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) was established in 1981 through the Film Development Corporation of Malaysia Act 1981 (Amendment 1984) Act 244 (Amendment of the A589). It is the lead government agency responsible for the Malaysian film industry’s development which includes activities to promote, nurture and facilitate the development of the film industry in Malaysia.

Any foreign film producer planning to shoot in Malaysia should first contact the Film In Malaysia Office (FIMO) in FINAS for information on filming procedures and film incentives available in Malaysia.

What is PUSPAL?

PUSPAL is “The Central Agency Committee for Apllication for Filming and Foreign Artists Presentations” under the aegis of the Ministry Communications and Multimedia Malaysia. It was established to assist and facilitate applications from foreign film producers planning to shoot in Malaysia. All foreign film producers need to apply to PUSPAL first to get approval for filming in Malaysia. FINAS is a permanent member of PUSPAL. For further information on PUSPAL please visit their website at: https://epuspal.kkmm.gov.my or Film In Malaysia Office.

Are producers allowed to bring their own production equipments?

Yes, producers are allowed to bring their own production equipment. However, Malaysia also has several film equipment rental companies. You can either contact your Product Service Company for your requirement or obtain a list of filming equipment rental. Refer Local Industries links for more info.

Are there production and post–production services available in Malaysia?

Yes, we have a database of active production and post-production houses. Refer Local Industries links for more info.