DATUK Kamil Othman, a well-known figure in the Malaysian film industry, has been elected as the new chairman of the National Film Development Corporation of Malaysia (Finas).
He previously served as the director-general from 2014 to 2016.
The post was previously held by Datuk Seri Zurainah Musa but her contract was terminated on December 11 following the change in government.
Kamil’s appointment as chairman was officially announced by Communications and Digital Minister Fahmi Fadzil through his social media accounts.
Kamil is currently serving as CEO of PETRA Media.
Fahmi expressed his congratulations to Kamil, stating that the latter is highly respected and capable, no stranger within the local film industry.
"Congratulations to Datuk Kamil Othman for being appointed as the new chairman of Finas,” his Facebook post read.
The minister announced that he plans to arrange a meeting with Kamil in the coming week to discuss various matters pertaining to Finas, including the organisation's future direction, as well as a recent auditor-general's report that alleges funds were channeled to firms with links to Finas directors.
"Next week I will arrange a meeting to discuss several matters, including the direction of Finas, as well as examining the findings and remarks of the auditor-general's report for improvements and corrections," he said.
The minister also added the chairman of the Finas Mandatory Screening Scheme will be appointed as soon as possible.
In an interview with the Vibes, Kamil said he hopes to bring back some of the plans he had in place during his previous tenure.
“When my contract as director-general of Finas ended in 2016, I felt that the two years given to me wasn’t enough to bring about the changes I envisioned. I hope as chairman I can work closely with the Finas CEO and the ministry in order to push some of the plans we had in place,” he commented.
Kamil currently holds several positions in various companies, including as CEO of Petra Media, director of Mega Resources, and adviser at Filmforce Studio – the production company behind Juang.
He clarified that any conflict of interest will be declared so that it does not get in the way of his responsibilities.
The challenges facing the local film industry are immense, and many are hoping that Kamil’s appointment will mark a new chapter for the industry.
Ahmad Ibrahim, the chairman of the Film Director’s Association of Malaysia, had nothing but praise upon learning of Kamil’s appointment.
“He is the best. His experiences, knowledge and networking in Asia Pacific will give a new breath to Finas and bolster confidence within the industry.
"He was appointed vice-president of the Asian Film Commissions Network. He is well-versed with the internal structures of the organisation. What we want is a reset, and he is uniquely equipped to do one,” Ibrahim said to The Vibes.
Filmmaker Dain Said (Bunohan, Harum Malam) joined the chorus of praise.
“Kamil will continue the legacy he left during his first term. He will continue to inspire and empower the young especially, and his vision will transform our industry onto the right path,” he commented. – The Vibes, February 24, 2023
