The Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) and Fantasy Film Sdn Bhd will be joining hands to produce a 13-episode drama series to raise awareness on the dangers of corruption.
Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak, who launched the partnership today, said the effort must be lauded as corruption remained an issue that needs to be addressed.
“MACC have been doing a remarkable job by going all out to fight corruption and creating awareness. I definitely feel that the 13-episode series is not enough to show how much they have been doing and how serious corruption is.”
The drama series Banteras which was launched today will create greater awareness among the public on the dangers of corruption, said Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Dr Salleh Said Keruak.
The series titled ‘Banteras will commence filming in September and is expected to be aired on Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM).
Banteras will be shown in 13 one-hour episodes over local television channels, and shooting is expected to last for three months.
It revolves around the life of an-anti corruption officer, highlighting his scope of duties and challenges.
“The effort to fight corruption must continue to be the country’s top or permanent agenda as we can’t allow corruption to become a culture in our society. And if that happens, it will be dangerous,” Keruak said in his speech.
He also said corruption starts from the hearts and minds of the people.
“And to stop this form of corruption before it leads to bribery, we have to nurture the younger generation from now to stay from the heinous act.”
“I believe the best way to do this is through a drama series as this would be relatable to the people.”
He said using mass media to tell the stories through drama and action was one of the best ways of conveying the message effectively to the people.
“The drama (series) stresses on eradicating corruption and not making it a common practice in society,” he said.
Famous local director Ghaz Abu Bakar will be directing the series, which stars various local artistes including Shahili Abdan, Sangeetha Krishnasamy and Khir Rahman.
Also present at the event were MACC chief commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Ahmad, his deputy (prevention) Datuk Shamshun Baharin Mohd Jamil and Fantasy Films Sdn Bhd CEO Adillah Abu Samah.
Witnessing the launch of the event today, MACC chief commissioner Datuk Dzulkifli Ahmad said the drama series is one of its numerous efforts to educate and create awareness on corruption.
“We hope through this effort, we will be able to reach out to the people through the anti-corruption message we want to extend in every episode,” he added.
Salleh also urged film producers to use government media like Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) to make dramas or films on corruption which would convey a message to the people and leaders to be free of it.
“The people must appreciate all the government’s efforts to fight corruption. They are quick to criticise, but do not understand the heavy tasks that must be performed as it involves investigations and arrests.
“Corruption is our main enemy. We must fight it together. I hope the Banteras drama will send the message clearly. If it is unclear, it could create confusion. The message must reach the viewers,” he said.
Salleh said he hoped the involvement of famed producer Ghaz Abu Bakar who is experienced in producing action films, as well as a line-up of talented local actors, would produce a quality drama.
Meanwhile, Dzulkifli said Banteras would convey the importance of preventing corruption to the public with viewers seeing its effects on society.
“If we really want to combat corruption, the first thing that must be done is everyone must avoid it. It is simple and everyone should know – do not give and do not receive bribes, and be willing to report all corrupt practices to the MACC so that action could be taken,” he said.
Sources: New Straits Times, The Sun Daily.
