Malaysians circulate petition to keep Kamil Othman in FINAS as director-general’s term draws to an end
AS Kamil Othman‘s two-year term as director-general of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) draws to an end, rumours have begun floating about the fate of the film development authority.
Some quarters allege his replacement has been made — a toss up between one politician and another FINAS personnel — while others believe Kamil will retain hold of his position for at least one more term.
Local filmmakers and members of the public however have decided to voice out their support for Kamil while waiting for an official announcement from authorities. Having collected over 470 signatures and 160 comments since it circulated on social media yesterday, online petition Industri Perlu Kamil! is currently generating awareness about Kamil and FINAS’s role in the local filmscape over the past two years.
The petition summarises Kamil’s contributions to the local film industry since coming into office in November 2014. Among Kamil’s highlighted efforts include his attempts to restructure FINAS, revamp the compulsory screening scheme and establish connections between local and international filmmaking talent. The petition also brings into light Kamil’s strong performance in his previous role as vice president of Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDeC).
Initiated by iPetitions user Steve Irwin on 6 November 2016, Industri Perlu Kamil has already garnered the support of numerous local thinkers and creatives. Filmmaker Tunku Mona Riza, George Town Festival‘s Joe Sidek, scholar Zainah Anwar, BFM‘s Ezra Zaid, producer Bea Tanaka, playwright Nam Ron and actress Dawn Cheong are just some of 479 notable individuals who have signed the petition thus far.
The petition’s goal is for the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia (KKMM) to take heed of Kamil’s efforts as director-general of FINAS and allow him to stay in his position for another term. It hopes that Kamil’s continued leadership will bring FINAS on par with respected film development entities such as Screen Australia and the Korean Film Council.
To sign the petition, head on over to Industry Perlu Kamil on iPetitions.
Check out Industri Perlu Kamil! to participate and sign the petition. Got something to say? Make sure to leave a comment below or join the conversation on social media by using the hashtag #industriperlukamil.
Kamil should continue. He will provide a future for Malaysia Creative Content.
Tried to sign petition but could not find the option of signing the petition without paying the website. Hence, they weren’t asking for donation but rather putting a payment wall for you to vote. That i have a problem with.
I think that Kamil should continue. He will provide a future for Malaysia Creative Content.