If you’re following The Mandalorian series in Malaysia, then you should be proud that there are Malaysian talents helped to produce the TV show. Base Digital Production Sdn Bhd (Base Digital Production) has just announced their Malaysian studio was working for The
Mandalorian TV series and the ending episode of the Star Wars trilogy.
The studio was made possible with continuous support from the Ministry of Communications and Multimedia (KKMM) and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS). The recent premiere of The Mandalorian Season 2 on Disney+ caught the attention of many Malaysians after learning that the USD100mil TV series received financial support from FINAS under the Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI). Through FIMI, the Malaysian Government awards international production studios with a 30% subsidy for all expenditures made in Malaysia,
be it for filming or post-production activities. By doing so, the Malaysian Government has allowed for the cost of production to be competitively comparable with neighbouring countries while producing exceptional visual effects and providing Malaysian talents with the opportunity to work on Hollywood films.
A total of 78 artists in Malaysia produced a portion of the visual effects for Season 1 and 2 of The Mandalorian TV series with Qualifying Malaysian Production Expenditure (“QMPE”) of USD1.5 million. A total of 70 artists produced a portion of the visual effects for Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker (Episode IX) with a QMPE of USD700K.
En. Shakib Ahmad Shakir, Deputy Secretary-General, Minister of Communications Multimedia (KKMM), highlighted that “amidst this pandemic, it is of paramount importance to KKMM that business sustainability and employment is secured. The FIMI incentive has substantially aided in keeping businesses afloat and retaining steady employment, especially in the digital business industry, such as the visual effects and animation sector. The ministry also emphasizes the training and upskilling of Malaysian talents to ensure they are well equipped and proficient in this digital era.”
Dr. Ahmad Idham, CEO of FINAS, said “FIMI has attracted big titles to invest in Malaysianbased production companies, and there are more to come. With that said, Malaysia is now gaining recognition internationally as a preferred hub for visual effects and post-production activities. FINAS will continue in its efforts to develop the film and creative industry in Malaysia and develop local talents to position Malaysia as the preferential destination for international productions.”
Kindly visit www.filminmalaysia.com for more information on The Film In Malaysia Incentive (FIMI).