KUALA LUMPUR — Malaysia’s creative industry continues to gain momentum, with local films and animation recording strong box office earnings and expanding their reach into international markets.

Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil said National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) data as of October 8 showed that 17 films under the Mandatory Screening Scheme had generated combined box office receipts of RM129.86 million.

Among the highest-grossing films were Tarung: Unforgiven (RM23.59 million), Chelot (RM19.12 million), Polong (RM15.05 million), Libang Libu (RM14.16 million) and Malaikat Malam (RM12.23 million).

In animation, Fahmi said, Papa Zola The Movie earned RM63.84 million in Malaysia and more than RM69 million across Southeast Asia as of February 2026, highlighting the regional appeal of Malaysian productions.

“Achievements by Mechamato Movie and Upin & Ipin: Keris Siamang Tunggal also demonstrate the ability of Malaysian animation to penetrate international markets,” he said when winding up the policy-level debate on the Supply Bill 2027 (Budget 2027) for the Communications Ministry in the Dewan Rakyat today.

Fahmi said the commercial success of Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan, which grossed RM89.06 million, and Sheriff: Narko Integriti (RM59.50 million) further demonstrated the industry’s ability to generate revenue while showcasing Malaysian values, culture and identity.

He said the ministry remained focused on developing local content, intellectual property, market expansion and the competitiveness of Malaysian creative industry players.

Under the 12th Malaysia Plan, the Creative Content Fund (DKK) supported 1,677 local creative projects, generating 32,795 employment opportunities.