Malaysia has officially opened the ASEAN Film & TV Summit 2025, launching a powerful call for cross-regional collaboration in the creative industries. Held from July 22–25, the summit marks a pivotal moment in Malaysia’s ASEAN Chairmanship, positioning film and television as strategic drivers of cultural diplomacy, economic growth, and regional identity.
Officiated by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, the summit is jointly organized by FINAS, MIFFest, and the Asian Film Alliance Network (AFAN). It brings together delegates from across Southeast Asia, Europe, and East Asia to explore co-production frameworks, policy alignment, and sustainable filmmaking.
“Development must be people-centric, future-ready, and rooted in regional cooperation,” Teo said, aligning the summit with Malaysia’s ASEAN 2025 theme of Inclusivity and Sustainability.
Malaysia’s Creative Economy on the Rise
Malaysia’s Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI) has attracted RM2.71 billion in direct investments since 2013, with RM419 million in rebates disbursed across 128 projects. Recent highlights include:
- BBC’s Lord of the Flies filmed in Langkawi
- Ejen Ali: The Movie 2, grossing over RM59 million
- Dongeng Sang Kancil by Les’ Copaque, now streaming on Netflix
“These achievements show that Malaysian stories and landmarks can go global,” Teo added.
ASEAN–Europe Creative Bridge
AFAN’s debut in Southeast Asia, supported by EFAD and France’s Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs, introduces the AFAN Roundtable and AFAN Spotlight, fostering deep exchanges between Asian and European creatives.
“We’re building a shared Asian identity through storytelling,” said AFAN Secretary General Lorna Tee.
Toward a Common Creative Market
FINAS CEO Datuk Azmir Saifuddin Mutalib proposed a regional MOU to formalize co-productions and crew mobility across ASEAN. He emphasized inclusive practices, including hiring local crews and empowering indigenous voices.
“Let’s lift one another through our stories,” Azmir urged.
Summit Highlights
- ASEAN On Screen: A curated showcase of six regional films
- Masterclasses: Led by UK’s Asif Kapadia and India’s Rima Das
- MIFFest Screenings: Featuring 64 films from around the world
- Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA): Celebrating regional excellence on July 26
Strengthening Ties with China
Malaysia is expanding co-production opportunities with China, including a landmark MOU between Skop Productions and Hong Kong partners. Plans are underway for a Malaysian film festival in China, further boosting bilateral cultural exchange.
