KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 1 — The Communications and Multimedia Ministry will only announce the names of the new National Film Development Corporation (Finas) board next week.
Its minister Gobind Singh Deo said the board consists of individuals with experience and extensive knowledge of the filming industry, but declined to elaborate on names of those appointed.
“They board will also consist of individuals fluent in accounting as well, and I will be announcing the names next week,” he said in Parliament today.
Also to be announced next week is the ministry’s select team that will carry out an internalaudit on Finas, Gobind said.
He said the ministry, after studying the financial irregularities of Finas as stated in last year’s auditor-general’s (A-G) report, will suggest the appointment of accountants to propose a more effective financial framework for the corporation.
“This is to make sure the financial system and accountability of Finas, to avoid future leakages and irregularities, and so no more issues of accountability or integrity will resurface.
“These accountants will then report their findings to my ministry,” he added.
The minister said this in relation to some RM25 million that went unexplained from Finas’ financial reports, as established by the A-G.
Gobind said the missing funds had exposed several irregularities and doubts over the handling of the cash, leading the ministry to also lodge a report with the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC).
“Funding is one of the important assets to the filming industry, where great care must be taken to make sure it is channelled to the right people.
“When there is a lack (of funds) it will bring a negative effect to the industry and we need to avoid this,” he added.
Gobind added that he hopes the newly appointed board slated to be announced next week will be able to drive Finas to greater heights and compete not only locally, but also on the world stage.
