KUALA LUMPUR: The National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) deputy director-general (Management) Rozita Waty Ridzuan is discharging the duty of the agency's chief executive officer (CEO), effective today, pending the appointment of a candidate for the post.

In a statement issued today, FINAS said the decision was part of the restructuring measure by the agency that will involve realignment or recalibration of the policies, programmes and activities of the creative industry, especially the film industry.

"This initiative is hoped to be able to help Malaysian filmmakers produce quality films that have high local and international market value," it said.

FINAS also expressed its appreciation to Prof Dr Md Nasir Ibrahim for his contributions throughout his service as the agency's Chief Executive Officer from Nov 1, 2021, until May 31, 2023.

"FINAS wishes Md Nasir the best of luck and may he continues to excel in whatever field and organisation he joins in the future," read the statement.

Meanwhile, Md Nasir said he accepted the decision by the FINAS board of directors with an open heart.

"I am relieved by this decision and I will rest for a while. I hope FINAS will be more successful under the new leadership," he told a press conference today,

Sharing his stint with FINAS, Md Nasir said he was able to attract the interest of several foreign producers to shoot in Malaysia through the Film Production Incentive in Malaysia (FIMI) involving RM1.04 billion.

"It is an achievement. Through FIMI, producers abroad can also collaborate with local industry players and talents," he said.

He also cited his working visit to Beijing, China recently, where he was able to attract investments of RM221 million for the Malaysian film industry.

-- BERNAMA