KUALA LUMPUR: The National Film Development Corporation (Finas) will consider a proposal by veteran artiste A.R. Badul to set up a fund for drama series centred on veteran performers.
Finas chairman Datuk Hans Isaac said the proposal will be brought before a Communications Ministry committee and corporation members for discussion.
With some adjustments to documentation and production formats, he said the initiative can be placed under the Veteran Artistes Supertelefilm Fund (STAR).
“The proposal is very good. I will bring this matter to the committee for discussion.
“We have the STAR Fund allocated from the industry’s annual budget. So, perhaps we can adapt the fund for a drama format,” he said during the recent National Veteran Figures Appreciation Tribute programme, held ahead of the 35th Malaysian Film Festival (FFM35).
Hans said a drama format would allow more veteran actors to be cast in a single production, creating a wider impact.
“In a drama series, 10 to 15 veteran actors can be involved. When there is a good proposal, we shouldn’t discard it. We should take it on.”
Earlier, A.R. Badul suggested creating a drama series fund for veteran actors to give them more room to showcase their craft.
He said while telefilm offers still come in for them, limited roles mean only a handful of senior artistes can take part.
Badul hoped broadcasters could produce long-running drama series that features veteran artistes on a rotational basis.
“If we create a drama series with long episodes, that space becomes wider.
“Dozens of veteran actors will get opportunities, depending on the storyline.
“These veteran artistes are resilient and still have deep passion for performing.
“We deeply appreciate all forms of support and concern, but what is more meaningful for artistes is the opportunity to continue working and contributing their talent as long as they are needed.”
During the tribute programme, A.R. Badul and veteran actress Norlia Ghani were guests at a forum moderated by Fedtri Yahya ahead of FFM35, set for Nov 21.