PAPAR: The over RM100 million investment by 10Star Cinemas in Sabah is not just for commercial profit, but aims to provide direct benefit to the people through the creation of more than 500 job opportunities and development of local creative talent.
Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Minister Datuk Armizan Mohd Ali said this strategic move will strengthen the State’s socioeconomic development and creative industry, particularly in rural areas.
“In addition to six existing cinemas in the city outskirts, two new cinemas will be built in Kinarut and Kundasang, expected to be completed in 2026 and 2027,” he said at the signing ceremony of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and groundbreaking for 10Star Cinemas and Ballroom Kinarut Palm Avenue here, Saturday.
The Papar Member of Parliament said the initiative aligns with the Sabah Film Development Aspiration Programme (APFS) 2026/2027, which focuses on cinema infrastructure development and youth creative works.
Through collaboration with DBAY Film Factory Sdn Bhd, the programme identifies young talents to produce short films.
Two selected productions are RIVY Production with the film Bedilan and Lapan Pagi Studio with Bas Malam.
“Both companies are led by young graduates from Universiti Malaysia Sabah and their works will be screened across all 10Star Cinemas nationwide,” he said.
Meanwhile, WSG Group Managing Director Datuk Susan Wong Siew Guen said the strategic partnership with 10Star Cinemas is expected to have a significant impact on Kinarut’s socioeconomic development.
“Kinarut residents no longer need to drive to Kota Kinabalu to watch films or hold wedding celebrations. Everything can be enjoyed in their own area,” she said.
The success of 10Star Cinema at Parklane City Benoni Papar, operating since May 2024, has received strong response and the new branch is expected to enjoy similar success.
At the event, Armizan, accompanied by Susan and 10Star Cinemas Chief Executive Officer Onn Norshal Hamzah, presented replica cheques to RIVY Production and Lapan Pagi Studio and witnessed the signing of a Film Investment Contract between 10Star FC (DBAY Film Factory) and Umbara Brothers Studio (Indonesia).
Also held were MoU signing ceremonies between 10Star with WK (Kundasang) and WSG (Kinarut), followed by the groundbreaking ceremony.
