Malaysia

Malaysian Communications & Multimedia Commission (MCMC)

Radio Televisyen Malaysia

Visas & Work Permits

Crew travelling on Western passports, who enter as tourists, can stay visa-free for up to 90 days.

The eastern states of Sabah and Sarawak (on the island of Borneo) have special entry requirements.

Malaysian film work permits must be applied for through a FINAS licenced company or approved government agency. Work permits can take up to eight weeks to process, but this can be expedited in some circumstances.

Additional permits are required, if filming in Malaysian Borneo.

Film Location Permits

Malaysia has a film friendly and streamlined permitting process. There are no extraordinary restrictions or rules.

Customs

For productions looking to bring in film equipment, Malaysia is an ATA carnet country.

When to Film

Generally, Malaysia has a tropical climate with warm, humid days and cool nights.

The west coast Malaysian peninsula has a dry season from November to April, light rains from April to August and a wet season from September to November.

The east coast Malaysian peninsula has a dry season from April to October and a wet season from November to March.

Malaysian Borneo receives high rainfall throughout the year, with heaviest rains from October to March.

Visibility for underwater photography is best during the dry season on the Malaysian peninsula and good all year-round on Malaysian Borneo.

Although Malaysia is a majority Muslim country, many services remain open during Ramadan. There are also sizeable Buddhist, Christian and Hindu minorities.

Public Holidays

Public holidays may affect timing, availability and costs. See here for public holiday dates in Malaysia.

On the whole, Malaysia is a cost competitive country to shoot in. It is roughly around the same price point as Indonesia, which is less expensive than Singapore, but more expensive than Thailand and the Philippines.

In Malaysia, the VAT rate is known as the SST (Sales & Service Tax) rate, which at the time of writing is set at 10% and 6% respectively.

Funding

National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS)

Incentives

Entertainment Partners' Production Incentives Map: Information for Malaysia.

At the time of writing, the UK does not have a trade agreement with this country. However, up to date information about UK trade agreements can be found on the GOV.UK website.