Sarawak filmmakers should strive to produce more quality productions to tap into the profitable creative industry not only domestically but internationally.

Datuk Norhyati Ismail, Deputy Chairman of AZAM Sarawak says, local filmmakers, especially those in the creative department, need to intensify their learning to upgrade their knowledge and skills in the field.

She was officiating a half day Masterclass Programme with Filmmakers organized by Angkatan Zaman Mansang Sarawak (AZAM Sarawak) and the US Embassy Kuala Lumpur in collaboration with TV Sarawak (TVS) in Kuching, today.

Datuk Norhyati, who is also the Chairman of Sarawak Media Group (SMG) pointed out that an essential skill in filmmaking is storytelling or writing, which local filmmakers should strive to master to be on par with the best filmmakers in the industry.

Meanwhile, Ms. Katherine Diop, the Cultural Affairs Officer of the US Embassy KL highlighted the importance of filmmaking in terms of digital economy and economic empowerment and telling stories.

“I would also like to encourage all of you as filmmakers to continue to help sarawakians to tell their stories using the art of filmmaking,” added Katherine.  

About 100 participants attended the programme that featured award-winning documentary filmmakers from the US, namely Izzy Chan, whose interests include looking at life-changing cultural and social trends, and, Carolyn Jones who specializes in telling stories that shed light on issues of global concern.

Participants comprised private and independent production houses, personnel of government and government linked agencies, broadcasters, social media influencers and, university lecturers & students in creative arts, and films.

For more information, contact AZAM Sarawak Communications Officer Hakim Junaidi at 082-411799 or email Hakim@azam.org.my.