By: Nurul Fazliana Norman
KOTA KINABALU: Sept 28, 2026 – Four local Sabah productions, three feature films and one short film, will meet audiences in cinemas through special screenings throughout October, in an effort to secure market space and strengthen the state’s film industry.
The four productions are Bobohizan Next Generation directed by Marc Abas (Oct 3), Mr. Finance directed by Jade Morris (Oct 8), Bas Malam directed by Shera and Zura Anwar (Oct 17) and Giring directed by Marlin Malalin (Oct 29). The screening line-up fills October slots before cinemas are expected to be flooded with big films in November and December.
Two productions received funding from the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), while Mr. Finance was self-financed. Bas Malam features actors with a national profile and received private investment support through the 10Star FC programme.
Sabah Film and Visual Association (SAFVA) president Chester Pang described the development as encouraging and capable of inspiring Sabah filmmakers. He said this after visiting the filming location of Beri Aku Waktu, Dr Zairul Anwar’s debut work, at ASTiF, Universiti Malaysia Sabah.
According to Chester, audience support is important in ensuring Sabah filmmakers’ films grow and gain market attention.
“Let us go to cinemas to watch Sabah films, especially Mr. Finance and Giring, which will be screened in more than 35 cinemas nationwide. Audience support is important because every ticket bought is also part of the support for the Sabah film industry and filmmakers,” he said.
“With cooperation and support from FINAS, investors, including industry players such as 10Star Cinemas, the Sabah film industry is still able to produce works and move forward. This shows the talent and creativity of Sabahans have the potential to be developed further,” he said.
He said the momentum is expected to be strengthened through the Creative Economy portfolio created on Dec 1, 2025 under the Sabah Ministry of Youth Development, Sports Advancement and Creative Economy. Once the structure, policy and direction are completed, it will serve as an important guide in shaping a more organised film ecosystem.
“If this ecosystem is continuously strengthened, we will not only be able to produce more Sabah films, but also open opportunities for young talent, create jobs and bring Sabah works and stories to national and international levels,” he said.
