Fahmi Pushes for EPF Protection for Creative Workers in Government-Funded Projects*

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 19 — Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced an initiative to include Employees Provident Fund (EPF) contributions for creative workers involved in government-funded projects, particularly in the film industry. The move, formalized in an MoU between Finas and EPF, aims to provide social security and financial stability for workers, many of whom are freelancers with inconsistent incomes.

Currently, only 6% of Malaysia's 70,000 creative workers are enrolled in EPF. Fahmi hopes the initiative will encourage employers to include EPF contributions, with a target of 50% industry participation within two years. The scheme will also be mandatory for productions funded by Finas and RTM.

In related news, Fahmi expressed concern over the RM40 million Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI) budget, calling it insufficient compared to last year's RM90 million allocation. He plans to explore ways to boost funding for the sector.