DATUK Afdlin Shauki Aksan has plans to open Film Directors' Association of Malaysia (FDAM) membership to social media influencers.
The 55-year-old artiste, who was recently elected as FDAM chairman, said this initiative would allow these talent to learn from industry veterans.
They would also be able to gain knowledge in directing via a special programme that will be organised soon.
"Social media influencers will be given special membership. FDAM will hold classes for them to learn about directing from senior members.
"They will also be monitored and mentored to take them to the next level," he said.
Afdlin, who will serve as chairman from 2024 to 2025, added that the courses were aimed at discovering and nurturing talent and would be announced once they were finalised.
"This will help them when they produce feature films one day. So, what is needed are the skills, experience and know-how.
"We will share these things and even if they just remain in the social media realm, they would at least have additional knowledge that will be useful.
"The programme will also see us giving out certificates to recognise them as social media influencers," he said.
Afdlin said the special programmes were expected to be held early this year.
"I want social media influencers to know that this is a good first step. What's being done on social media is already good but there's potential for progress.
"We should always strive to improve ourselves. But to upscale our skills or abilities, there has to be a learning process.
"However, FDAM has yet to have discussions on the organising of these programmes.
"The number of participants has not been set and we will announce the details once they are ready," he said.
Afdlin, who was elected as chairman on Dec 16 during the association's 25th bi-annual general meeting at The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia in Ampang, Selangor, added that working together was a beneficial move.
He said since the world of content was now in their hands, cooperation was essential as opposed to everyone working in silos.
"Independent filmmakers should be accepted no matter who or where they are. The goal, at the end of the day, is to elevate Malaysian films," he said.
Afdlin also stressed his commitment to helping FDAM members attain a higher level of professionalism and uphold the image of the association.
"The responsibility of the FDAM chairman is a very heavy one. However, I am excited to work together with the members to enact changes and a rebranding to make everyone proud to be a FDAM card-carrying member.
"All previous issues that plagued FDAM, we will put those aside. We want to ensure that FDAM is the main backbone for directors in Malaysia.
"If you want to be a director, you must be recognised as an FDAM member," he said.
