KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 21 — The Malaysian film industry recorded impressive growth as local films attracted 7.55 million admissions to cinemas from January to July 2026, surpassing the 6.94 million admissions for Hollywood films during the same period.
The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) said the figure shows a difference of about 610,000 audience admissions (8.8 per cent), indicating increased public confidence and interest in local works.
This achievement also reflects the industry's ability to produce quality content that resonates with Malaysian viewers' tastes, culture, and experiences.
"That achievement is reinforced by the success of five local films that recorded collections exceeding RM10 million, namely Tarung: Unforgiven, with RM23.59 million, Polong (RM14.98 million), Libang Libu (RM14.16 million), Malaikat Malam (RM12.23 million), and Ah Beng vs Liang Po Po (RM10.04 million).
"FINAS sees this positive development driven by a significant improvement in the quality of scripts, acting, and the overall process of local film production compared to before," it said in a statement today.
In this regard, FINAS hopes this momentum will continue to strengthen through strategic cooperation among the government, industry practitioners, exhibitors, distributors, and the private sector to ensure the national film industry develops sustainably.
It will continue to strengthen the national film ecosystem through content development, enhanced talent competencies, technology application, expanded access to financing, and stronger promotion and distribution of local works.
FINAS also expresses its appreciation to the audience for its support and trust.
"This support serves as a source of motivation for industry practitioners to continue creating and producing higher quality and more competitive local films.
"The achievements during the first seven months of 2026 provide a positive foundation for the Malaysian film industry to continue growing, create economic value, and strengthen the position of local content in both domestic and international markets," it said.
