KUCHING: The Communications and Digital Ministry (KKD) is disbursing a special allocation of RM3 million through the Digital Content Fund to content creators in Sarawak and Sabah to encourage the production of higher quality and award-winning content.

Minister Fahmi Fadzil said the disbursement of the fund under the Malaysian National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) is also aimed at enhancing talent development, stimulating activities and innovation, and creating job opportunities in the two states.

For the same purpose, he said a 20 per cent discount is also being offered to content creators in Sarawak and Sabah for the rental and use of FINAS production facilities for six months starting today.

"If the content creators can produce work that could win awards, especially at the international level, we are willing to offer more discounts, including an additional 20 per cent after that.

"So, I hope that the RM3 million fund and the discounts provided can be a morale booster and serve as a catalyst for the production of more high-quality content from Sabah and Sarawak, enabling us to celebrate storytelling content about the people."

Fahmi said this to reporters after opening the Fast Track: How To Be A Content Creator seminar and launching the FINAS Sarawak Sound Stage Studio at FINAS Auditorium here today, which was also attended by FINAS chairman Datuk Kamil Othman.

Fahmi said an allocation of up to RM100,000 has also been set aside for each artistic work or content through the special allocation fund of RM3 million, and applications can be made starting today until Oct 11, specifically for arts industry players in Sarawak and Sabah.

"There are several categories for applications. Further and more detailed information can be obtained through the FINAS website," he said.

Meanwhile, in response to the call by Malaysian Artistes Associaton (SENIMAN) for action to be taken against the 'mastermind' in the production of the controversial film, "Mentega Terbang", Fahmi said the matter is within the jurisdiction of the Home Ministry.

"However, FINAS is also conducting its own probe and may address any related issues...we have not received more detailed information. Perhaps after the celebration of Malaysia Day, we will have more information," he said.

It was reported that the SENIMAN secretary-general Hafiz Nafiah had suggested that FINAS should take follow-up actions due to the production of "Mentega Terbang" which allegedly violated film production laws in Malaysia.

-- BERNAMA