COVID-19 Forces All Malaysian Cinemas To Shut Down Until Further Notice
According to the Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors, the industry has been hit hard by the pandemic.
By Arisha Rozaidee — 30 Oct 2020, 01:49 PM
The Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors (MAFE) has decided to temporarily suspend operations at all cinemas across Malaysia
MAFE explained in a statement that the move is a response to an increasingly challenging landscape for cinemas amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
The statement read, "As an industry, we believe it to be a necessary step for the long term preservation of Malaysian cinemas, so we can continue our role of contributing to the social, economic, and cultural fabric of our nation in the long run."
Starting November, all local cinemas will suspend movie screenings and concessions operations
MAFE explained that in light of recent events, such as the implementation of the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO) in different parts of Malaysia as well as the lack of new upcoming movie releases, Malaysian cinemas have been struggling to attract patrons.
This has resulted in the industry enduring deep revenue losses and a drop of admissions of up to 90% year-on-year.
They also noted that closing and reopening cinemas are "extremely cumbersome, costly, and disruptive not only for cinemas but also for our landlords and customers".
The movie theatres will be closed until further notice
"We will continue to monitor the situation and react accordingly as market conditions improve," MAFE assured.
"The industry remains optimistic that post-COVID-19, cinema attendances will rebound, stronger than ever, as moviegoing will remain a top entertainment choice for Malaysians."
