Malaysia, Australia Set To 'Co-Star' On Big Screen

MELBOURNE, Oct 23 (Bernama) -- Malaysia and Australia will soon have a 'starring role' in a bilateral film co-production agreement. The two countries have finalised the agreement, paving the way for their film producers to collaborate more closely on projects for the big and small screens. "As well as enhancing our cultural ties and strengthening people-to-people linkages, the agreement will reinforce bilateral economic relationship and provide a mechanism for Australian and Malaysian producers to compete more effectively in the global marketplace," Australia's Minister for Trade and Investment, Andrew Robb said in a statement. The co-production agreement – finalised in the margins of the recent Trans-Pacific Partnership Agreement negotiations – will open up access to a larger pool of talent, expertise and infrastructure, with the cost of production also being shared. "The agreement will provide a conduit for creative exchange and the development of screen projects of cultural significance to both Australia and Malaysia," said Minister for the Arts, Mitch Fifield. "It will also engage new international audiences in our local and shared stories." Australia has 12 other film co-production agreements, namely with Canada, China, France, Germany, Ireland, Israel, Italy, South Korea, New Zealand, Singapore, South Africa and the United Kingdom. Combined, these agreements have resulted in over 165 productions with a total budget of A$1.5 billion, to date. -- BERNAMA