PENANG: The Chinese Film Association of Malaysia (CFAM) will contribute RM15,000 over the next three years to support Han Chiang University College of Communication (HCUC) final-year student film screenings under a newly signed Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) aimed at strengthening industry-academia collaboration.
Under the three-year partnership from 2026 to 2028, CFAM will provide RM5,000 annually to support HCUC’s film screening activities, bringing its total contribution to RM15,000. The association will also facilitate industry engagement through talks, workshops, seminars, student film exhibitions and knowledge-sharing sessions led by film professionals.
HCUC Vice Chancellor Jenny Khoo Gim Hoon said the MoA marks a significant milestone in strengthening the strategic collaboration between both institutions, creating meaningful opportunities to enrich students’ learning experiences while contributing positively to the development of the creative industry and the wider community.
“As a leading organisation in the Malaysian Chinese film industry, CFAM has long played a vital role in nurturing creative talent, promoting film culture and contributing significantly to the growth of the local film ecosystem. It is truly an honour for HCUC to formalise this meaningful partnership today.
“Through this MoA, both parties will work closely to strengthen industry engagement and provide support for our media production students,” she said adding that the exposure students gain from the collaboration is important in bridging the gap between academic learning and industry practice, while helping them strengthen their practical skills, broaden their perspectives and build confidence as they prepare for their future careers.
She added that HCUC believes education should extend beyond the classroom and remain closely connected to industry developments and professional practice.
“Our aspiration is to nurture graduates who are not only academically competent, but also creative, adaptable, industry-ready, and capable of contributing meaningfully to society and the creative economy.
“We are confident that this partnership will continue to grow into a long-term and meaningful collaboration that benefits our students, supports talent development and contributes positively to the advancement of Malaysia’s film industry,” she said.
In addition, under the MoA, HCUC will be responsible for evaluating and selecting funding applications, promoting collaborative activities within the institution and providing suitable venues and academic support to ensure the smooth implementation of programmes.
The MoA was signed by Jenny Khoo and CFAM Secretary Hor King Mun and witnessed by HCUC Registrar Koh Chye Huat and CFAM Treasurer Chin Yew Sin.
Among those present were HCUC Chairman Board of Governors Dato’ Professor Dr Teng Tjoon Tow, CFAM committee members Mak Chee Choong and Simon Long Duk Yiw, Han Chiang Chief Financial Officer Loh Yee Nee and Dean of the School of Communication and Media Chuah Chin Guan.
