The panel discussion New Opportunities for Southeast Asian and Chinese-Language Cinema takes place in Hangzhou on Sept 21. [Photo provided by Zhejiang International Youth Film Festival]

The panel discussion New Opportunities for Southeast Asian and Chinese-Language Cinema was held on Sept 21 in Hangzhou as part of the 8th Zhejiang International Youth Film Festival.

Focusing on collaborative development across regional film industries, the event brought together industry leaders and creative professionals to discuss new pathways for co-productions, content innovation, market expansion, and cultural exchange.

Film experts from Hong Kong, Malaysia, Vietnam, and Singapore joined the dialogue, examining how to build a sustainable ecosystem for regional film cooperation. Discussions covered the integration of creative concepts, alignment of technical standards, distribution networks, and the shared cultural values driving cross-border collaboration in filmmaking.

Shamin Yusof from Malaysia's Skop Productions shared insights into the country's distinctive film market, the challenges and opportunities for Chinese-language content, and the outlook for Malaysia-China cooperation. Ye Maojun from Enotech Media, also based in Malaysia, spoke about his transition from industrialist to film investor and elaborated on the company's strategic vision for Southeast Asia.

Doan Thi Thu Trang from Vietnam's Mockingbird Pictures highlighted the rapid growth of Vietnam's film industry and discussed her company's approach to co-production strategy, risk management, and partnerships with emerging Chinese filmmakers based on both local and cross-border experience.