The Malaysian Association of Film Exhibitors (MAFE) has announced the temporary suspension of all cinemas across the country commencing November 2020.
Cinemas will be progressively suspending movie screenings and concession operations at their locations.
“The closure is a cohesive decision undertaken by the industry in light of the recent CMCO implementation in some states across Malaysia which requires cinemas to remain closed coupled with a lack of new movie releases,” the Association said in a statement.
According to MAFE, the Malaysian cinema industry has been hit hard by the pandemic and has suffered deep revenue losses due to a drop of up to 90 percent y-o-y.
“Closing and reopening cinemas is extremely cumbersome, costly and disruptive not only for cinemas but also for our landlords and customers,” said MAFE Vice President, Cheah Chun Wai.
Cinemas nationwide has appealed for government assistance and rental support for the distressed industry as it grapples to survive and recover from the impact caused by the pandemic.
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