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Syahmi Sazli chosen as FINAS Young Filmmaker Icon

Syahmi Sazli's debut feature, "Mael Totey The Movie" was self-funded
Syahmi Sazli's debut feature, "Mael Totey The Movie" was self-funded

17 Dec – YouTuber-turned-filmmaker Syahmi Sazli has been chosen to be honoured as FINAS' Young Filmmaker Icon next month.

The news was announced by the Chairman of the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), Zakaria Abdul Hamid recently, saying that Syahmi had successfully elevated the local film industry through his debut feature, "Mael Totey The Movie", which had earned more than RM 7 million when it premiered on Astro First back in October.

It is noted that the movie was self-funded by the said director, who started the project with a budget of RM300,000.

"It was time for young filmmakers to be given the platform to showcase their ideas and stories to the public. This is to ensure that the story itself would satisfy the demand of the younger generation. At the same time, these films could hopefully serve as a lesson and guidance for these youths who will be leading the country in the future," Zakaria added.

Syahmi Sazli receiving guests from FINAS at his production house
Syahmi Sazli receiving guests from FINAS at his production house

Admitting that a lot of shows on television nowadays are "stereotypical", Zakaria pointed out that "Mael Totey The Movie" has provided a different kind of content by showcasing the talents of those who are disabled.

"The film didn't even apply funds from FINAS. Syahmi went and funded the movie himself. But if he plans to get our assistance in the future, we will make sure to ease the work for him. We will also discuss with Syahmi of other programmes that we can work on in the future," he added.

On the other hand, Syahmi stated that he is working on a new film that would revolve around village life.

"The yet-to-be-titled movie will begin production sometime around March or April next year," he added.

"Mael Totey The Movie" made RM7 million on Astro First
"Mael Totey The Movie" made RM7 million on Astro First

(Photo Source: Syahmi Sazli Instagram)