Filming in Malaysia: Film, Photo, Video, Documentary Production Services and Crews Malaysia

Malaysia has a tropical climate, which means it is generally hot and humid throughout the year, with occasional rainfall. The country experiences two monsoon seasons, the Northeast Monsoon and the Southwest Monsoon, which can affect the weather conditions in different regions of the country.

The best filming season in Malaysia depends on the type of production and the location. Generally, the months from March to September are considered the best time to film in Malaysia, as the weather is generally drier and less humid. During this period, the country experiences the least amount of rainfall, which can be important for outdoor shoots.

However, it is worth noting that the weather can be unpredictable, and sudden downpours can occur even during the dry season. Filmmakers should also be aware of the hot and humid conditions in Malaysia, which can be challenging for outdoor shoots, especially during the middle of the day.

The weather conditions also vary depending on the location in Malaysia. The East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia, for example, experiences its monsoon season from November to February, which can bring heavy rainfall and strong winds. On the other hand, the East Coast of Sabah experiences its wet season from May to October, while the West Coast experiences its wet season from October to February.

Overall, filmmakers should plan their shoots based on their specific requirements and research the weather conditions in the location they plan to film. It is also advisable to work with local production companies that have experience dealing with the local climate and weather patterns.

Malaysia is a diverse country with a wide range of locations that can serve as great filming locations. Here are some of the best filming locations in Malaysia:

Kuala Lumpur: The capital city of Malaysia offers a mix of modern and traditional architecture, making it a great location for urban settings. The iconic Petronas Twin Towers and the KL Tower provide excellent backdrops for cityscape shots.

Langkawi: Langkawi is an archipelago of 99 islands known for its beautiful beaches, lush forests, and stunning landscapes. The island’s natural beauty makes it a popular destination for filming commercials, music videos, and movies.

Penang: The historic city of George Town in Penang is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers a mix of colonial-era architecture, traditional Chinese shophouses, and modern buildings. The city’s rich cultural heritage makes it a great location for period dramas and documentaries.

Malacca: Malacca is another historic city that offers a unique mix of architectural styles. The city’s well-preserved colonial buildings, including the Stadthuys and Christ Church, provide great backdrops for period dramas and documentaries.

Taman Negara National Park: Taman Negara is one of the oldest rainforests in the world and offers a diverse range of flora and fauna. The park’s stunning landscapes and natural beauty make it an ideal location for nature documentaries and adventure films.

Cameron Highlands: The Cameron Highlands is a hill station known for its cool climate and scenic landscapes. The area’s tea plantations, rolling hills, and quaint villages provide a great backdrop for romantic comedies and dramas.

Kota Kinabalu: Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of Sabah and offers a mix of modern and traditional architecture. The city’s proximity to Mount Kinabalu and the surrounding rainforest make it an ideal location for adventure films and nature documentaries.

These are just some of the many filming locations that Malaysia has to offer. Filmmakers should also consider working with local production companies that can provide insights into the best locations and help with permits and logistics.

Photo, video, TV, and film studios rental and film backlots in Malaysia are widely available and offer a range of options for filmmakers. Here’s an overview of the rental options available in Malaysia:

Studios: There are many studios available for rent in Malaysia, ranging from small, independent studios to large-scale production facilities. These studios offer a range of services, including lighting equipment, grip equipment, and post-production facilities. Some studios also offer sets, props, and costumes for rent.

Film Backlots: Several film backlots are available for rent in Malaysia, including the Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios in Johor and the KRU Studios in Selangor. These backlots offer a range of sets, including cityscapes, forests, and historical buildings.

Equipment rental: Equipment rental companies are also available in Malaysia and offer a range of options, including cameras, lenses, lighting, and sound equipment. These companies also offer technical support and training for filmmakers.

The rental fees for studios, backlots, and equipment vary depending on the location, size, and type of equipment required. However, rental fees in Malaysia are generally more affordable compared to other countries in the region, making it a cost-effective option for filmmakers.

In summary, Malaysia offers a range of options for filmmakers looking to rent photo, video, TV, and film studios, backlots, and equipment. Filmmakers should consider working with local production companies to get the best rates and to ensure a smooth rental process.

Malaysia has a growing photo, video, TV, and film industry, and several cities in the country have advanced facilities to support the industry. Here are some of the cities in Malaysia with comparatively more advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities:

Kuala Lumpur: The capital city of Malaysia is the center of the country’s film and television industry. Kuala Lumpur offers a range of production facilities, including post-production studios, sound stages, and equipment rental companies. The city is also home to several production houses, including KRU Studios, one of the largest production houses in Malaysia.

Johor Bahru: Johor Bahru is located in the southern region of Malaysia and is home to Pinewood Iskandar Malaysia Studios, a world-class film and TV production facility. The studio complex features five sound stages, production offices, workshops, and backlots. The studio has hosted several international productions, including the Netflix series “Marco Polo” and the Hollywood movie “Crazy Rich Asians.”

Selangor: Selangor is the wealthiest and most developed state in Malaysia and is located in the central region of the country. The state is home to several production facilities, including KRU Studios and the Seri Perak Film Studio, one of the oldest and largest film studios in Malaysia.

Penang: Penang is a state located in the northern region of Malaysia and is known for its historic architecture and natural beauty. The state is home to several production facilities, including the Penang Film Office, which provides location scouting services and support for film and TV productions.

Sabah: Sabah is located in the eastern region of Malaysia and is known for its diverse landscapes, including rainforests, beaches, and mountains. The state is home to several production facilities, including the Sabah Film Academy, which provides training and support for aspiring filmmakers.

In summary, Kuala Lumpur, Johor Bahru, Selangor, Penang, and Sabah are some of the cities in Malaysia with advanced photo, video, TV, and film facilities. These cities offer a range of production facilities and support services for filmmakers.

Malaysia has a thriving film industry and has produced a variety of films, including dramas, comedies, action movies, and horror films. Here are some notable films produced in Malaysia:

P Ramlee Films: P Ramlee was a legendary actor, director, and musician who produced some of the most beloved films in Malaysia’s cinematic history. His films, including “Madu Tiga,” “Bujang Lapok,” and “Hang Tuah,” are still widely watched and celebrated in Malaysia today.

“Lelaki Harapan Dunia” (2014): This critically acclaimed film directed by Liew Seng Tat won several awards, including the Best Film award at the Tokyo International Film Festival. The film tells the story of a man struggling to keep his family’s small business afloat amidst the changing landscape of modern Malaysia.

“Ola Bola” (2016): This sports drama directed by Chiu Keng Guan tells the story of the Malaysian national football team’s journey to qualify for the 1980 Olympics. The film was a box office hit in Malaysia and was praised for its inspiring message of unity and perseverance.

“The Journey” (2014): This heartwarming comedy-drama directed by Chiu Keng Guan tells the story of a young man’s journey to reconnect with his estranged father while traveling from Kuala Lumpur to his hometown in rural Malaysia. The film was a critical and commercial success in Malaysia and Singapore.

“KL Gangster” (2011): This action-packed crime thriller directed by Syamsul Yusof tells the story of two brothers caught in the world of gang violence in Kuala Lumpur. The film was a box office success in Malaysia and spawned a sequel and a spin-off series.

“Hantu Kak Limah” (2018): This horror-comedy film directed by Mamat Khalid was a box office hit in Malaysia and became one of the highest-grossing Malaysian films of all time. The film tells the story of a village haunted by the ghost of a local woman named Kak Limah.

In summary, Malaysia has produced a range of films, including classics by P Ramlee, critically acclaimed films like “Lelaki Harapan Dunia” and “The Journey,” and box office hits like “Ola Bola” and “Hantu Kak Limah.”

The cost of filming in Malaysia can vary depending on the production’s requirements, such as the location, crew, equipment, and other factors. However, compared to some neighboring countries, Malaysia can offer a more cost-effective option for filmmakers.

For example, Singapore is known for having higher production costs due to its higher living standards and limited land resources. Thailand and Indonesia can also be more expensive due to higher production costs, taxes, and permit fees.

In contrast, Malaysia can offer lower production costs and tax incentives for foreign productions. The government of Malaysia has implemented various incentives, such as the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI), to encourage more foreign productions to shoot in the country. The FIMI provides a cash rebate of up to 30% of qualifying production expenditure in Malaysia, subject to certain conditions and eligibility requirements.

Moreover, Malaysia has a diverse range of landscapes, such as rainforests, beaches, mountains, and urban areas, that can offer versatile filming locations at competitive prices. Additionally, the country has a pool of talented professionals and crew members with competitive rates, including directors, producers, cinematographers, and other support personnel.

Overall, while the cost of filming in Malaysia can vary depending on the production’s requirements, Malaysia can offer a more cost-effective option compared to some neighboring countries, with incentives, diverse filming locations, and a pool of talented professionals and crew members available at competitive rates.

While Malaysia is a generally safe country for filming, there are some sensitive regions where additional precautions should be taken. Here are some areas that may require extra attention:

Sabah and Sarawak: These two states on the island of Borneo have a large number of indigenous communities and a complex history of land ownership disputes, which can sometimes lead to tensions and conflicts. Filming in these areas should be done with sensitivity and respect for local customs and traditions.

Religious sites: Malaysia has a significant Muslim population, and some religious sites, such as mosques and Islamic schools, may have restrictions on filming or photography. It is best to check with local authorities before filming at these locations.

Military installations: Filming near military installations, including naval bases and airfields, is prohibited without prior permission from the Malaysian armed forces. Unauthorized filming in these areas can result in legal consequences.

Border areas: Malaysia shares land borders with Thailand, Indonesia, and Brunei, which may have their own regulations and restrictions on filming. It is important to check with local authorities and obtain any necessary permits before filming near the border.

Sensitive political areas: As with any country, Malaysia has areas that may be sensitive due to political or social issues. Filming in these areas may be subject to restrictions or require additional permits, and it is important to research and seek advice before filming in these areas.

Overall, while Malaysia is a generally safe and welcoming country for filming, it is important to be aware of any sensitive areas or issues and take the necessary precautions and obtain any necessary permits to ensure a smooth and successful production.

Filming Permit
Filming in Malaysia requires various permits and approvals from the relevant authorities, depending on the location and nature of the shoot. Here are some of the permits that may be required for filming in Malaysia:

Filming permit: This is a general permit issued by the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), which regulates film production in Malaysia. The permit is required for all filming activities in the country, and it must be obtained at least 14 days before the start of the shoot.

Location permit: This permit is issued by the local government or landowner of the filming location. It is required for all outdoor and public filming activities, and it must be obtained before filming commences.

Work permit: Foreign film crews must obtain work permits from the Malaysian Immigration Department to legally work in the country. This permit must be obtained before the start of the shoot, and it may take up to two months to process.

Drone permit: Filming with drones in Malaysia requires a permit from the Department of Civil Aviation. The permit must be obtained at least 21 days before the start of the shoot.

Permit for filming in protected areas: Filming in national parks, wildlife reserves, and other protected areas requires a permit from the relevant authorities, such as the Department of Wildlife and National Parks or the Forestry Department.

Permit for filming in religious sites: Filming in religious sites, such as mosques or temples, may require permission from the relevant religious authority.

Permit for filming on public roads: Filming on public roads may require permission from the local authorities and the police department.

It is important to note that the permit requirements may vary depending on the specific location and nature of the shoot. It is advisable to consult with a local production company or a reputable film service provider in Malaysia for detailed guidance on the permits required for a particular shoot.

Visas for foreign crew
The general visa policies in Malaysia require most foreign nationals to obtain a visa before entering the country. However, there are some exemptions for certain nationalities, such as citizens of ASEAN countries, Commonwealth countries, and several other countries who are allowed to enter Malaysia without a visa for a limited period of time.

For foreign film crews who wish to film in Malaysia, they need to obtain a Professional Visit Pass (PVP) from the Malaysian Immigration Department. The PVP is a type of work visa that allows foreign nationals to enter Malaysia for short-term work assignments, including filming projects.

The PVP application process requires the following documents:

A letter of invitation from the Malaysian company or organization that is sponsoring the filming project.
A completed PVP application form.
A letter of endorsement from the relevant Malaysian government agency, such as the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), stating that the filming project is approved.
A copy of the contract or agreement between the foreign film production company and the Malaysian company or organization that is sponsoring the project.
A copy of the film script or treatment.
A copy of the passport of each crew member.

The PVP is typically issued for a period of up to 90 days, although it can be extended upon application. Small film crews may not need to apply for a PVP for every shoot, but it is recommended that they check with the relevant Malaysian authorities to ensure that they comply with all the necessary regulations and requirements.

The film industry in Malaysia has been steadily growing in recent years, and there are many highly professional and experienced film crews available for hire. The cost of hiring a film crew in Malaysia may vary depending on the size of the crew, the equipment needed, and the duration of the shoot, but in general, the rates are competitive compared to other countries in the region.

The official language of Malaysia is Bahasa Malaysia, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in the film industry. Many film crews in Malaysia are multilingual and can speak a variety of languages, including Mandarin, Cantonese, Tamil, and other local dialects.

The number of hours included in each shooting day may depend on the specific production and the agreement between the production company and the crew. In general, a standard shooting day in Malaysia is 10-12 hours, but this can be negotiated between the production company and the crew based on their needs and budget. It is important to note that overtime rates may apply for any hours worked beyond the standard shooting day.

Overall, the film industry in Malaysia is known for its professionalism and quality of work, with many experienced crews and state-of-the-art facilities available for hire. The cost of hiring a film crew in Malaysia is competitive, and the crews are often multilingual and able to communicate in English. The number of hours included in each shooting day can be negotiated between the production company and the crew, based on their needs and budget.

World Production Service is your one-stop-shop for all production needs in Malaysia. We have an extensive network of top-notch photo, video, TV, and film crews as well as established relationships with leading production companies, media and casting agencies, and other service providers in Malaysia.

We can rapidly assemble an exceptional production team in Malaysia that is tailored to your production requirements, be it factual, branded, frictional or educational content. Whether you need a photo crew, video crew, TV crew, or film crew, we can provide you with the best professionals in the industry.

Additionally, we offer a variety of production companies to choose from, including film production company, video production company, photo production company, documentary production company, TV production company, TV commercial production company, and branded video production company in Malaysia. Our goal is to ensure that we meet all your production needs and deliver results that exceed your expectations.

With World Production Service, you can be sure that your production needs will be taken care of seamlessly and professionally in Malaysia.

The art department in the film industry in Malaysia is generally considered to be of a high standard, with skilled art directors, set designers, and prop makers available for hire. Malaysia has a rich cultural heritage and diverse architectural styles, which provides a wealth of inspiration for art direction and set design in film productions.

The art direction in Malaysian films is often influenced by the country’s multicultural identity, with a blend of traditional and contemporary elements. Set construction in Malaysia is often done by experienced carpenters and builders, who can create intricate and realistic sets. Prop making in Malaysia is also highly skilled, with the ability to create custom-made props and intricate set pieces.

There are also several well-established production design and art direction companies in Malaysia, which offer a range of services such as concept design, art direction, set construction, and props making. These companies have worked on a variety of local and international productions, providing a high level of professionalism and quality work.

Overall, the art department in the film industry in Malaysia is highly skilled, with experienced art directors, set designers, and prop makers available for hire. The art direction often blends traditional and contemporary elements, and set construction and props making are highly skilled and can create intricate and realistic sets and props.

Local Equipment Rental
The photo, video, TV, and film equipment rental industry in Malaysia is well-developed, with several leading companies offering a wide range of equipment for rent.

Some of the leading companies offering photo, video, TV, and film equipment rental in Malaysia include:

Filmquip Media – offers a wide range of equipment, including cameras, lenses, lighting, and grip equipment, as well as specialized equipment like dollies and cranes.

ACME Studio – provides equipment rental for video, photography, and film productions, including cameras, lenses, lighting, sound equipment, and grip equipment.

Cinegear – offers a range of equipment rental for film, television, and video productions, including cameras, lenses, lighting, and grip equipment.

Fakelab – specializes in camera and lens rentals, including RED, ARRI, and Sony cameras, and a variety of lenses.

Big Foot Studios – offers equipment rental for film, TV, and video productions, including cameras, lenses, lighting, sound equipment, and grip equipment.

The cost of equipment rental in Malaysia varies depending on the type of equipment needed, the duration of the rental, and the company providing the rental. It is important to shop around and compare prices and equipment availability before making a decision on which company to rent from.

Overall, the photo, video, TV, and film equipment rental industry in Malaysia is well-developed, with several leading companies offering a wide range of equipment for rent.

Bringing Equipment into Malaysia
If you are traveling into Malaysia with filming equipment for a temporary stay, you may need to obtain a Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) for your equipment. The TIP is a document that allows you to temporarily import your filming equipment into Malaysia without paying import duties or taxes.

You can apply for a TIP through the Royal Malaysian Customs Department or through a customs agent. You will need to provide a detailed inventory of the equipment you are bringing in, including serial numbers and values.

Malaysia is a member of the ATA Carnet system, so you can use an ATA Carnet to temporarily import your filming equipment into Malaysia without paying import duties or taxes.

In summary, if you are traveling into Malaysia with filming equipment for a temporary stay, you may need to obtain a Temporary Importation Permit (TIP) for your equipment. However, if you have an ATA Carnet, you can use it to temporarily import your filming equipment into Malaysia without paying import duties or taxes.

Malaysia has a vibrant and diverse entertainment industry, and there are many talented actors and actresses, models, and other performers available through casting agencies. There are also many casting agencies and talent agencies in Malaysia that provide a wide range of services, including talent management, casting services, and production coordination.

The quality of the talents and casting agencies in Malaysia is generally good, with many experienced and professional agencies working with both local and international productions. Many of these agencies have a strong online presence, making it easy for producers and directors to browse through their portfolios and select the right talents for their project.

Malaysia’s diverse population also offers a range of ethnicities, which can be useful for productions that require a specific look or cultural background. Malay, Chinese, Indian, and other ethnicities are all well-represented in Malaysia’s entertainment industry.

In summary, the talent and casting agencies in Malaysia are generally of good quality, and there are many talented actors, models, and performers available. The diverse population of Malaysia also offers a range of ethnicities, which can be useful for productions that require a specific look or cultural background.

Malaysia’s post-production and animation/VFX industries have been growing in recent years, with many local and international companies setting up operations in the country. The government has also been actively promoting these industries as part of its efforts to develop Malaysia’s digital economy.

In terms of post-production, there are several major players in Malaysia, including Vision New Media, VHQ Post, and Post Amazers. These companies provide a range of services, including editing, color grading, sound design, and visual effects. Many of them have worked on both local and international projects.

The animation and VFX industry in Malaysia is also growing, with several notable companies such as Les’ Copaque Production, Animasia Studio, and Giggle Garage. These companies have been involved in the production of various animated series and films, as well as commercials and visual effects for film and television.

Overall, Malaysia’s post-production and animation/VFX industries are growing and offer opportunities for both local and international companies. The government’s support and investment in these industries are expected to further boost their growth in the coming years.