Penang strengthens its position as an international filming destination with Netflix’s The Big Fix starring Mark Wahlberg now shooting at iconic locations across the state.
GEORGE TOWN: Penang has strengthened its position as an international filming destination as Netflix’s upcoming Hollywood film The Big Fix, starring Mark Wahlberg, is currently being shot at several iconic locations across the state.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said the two-week production would provide valuable global exposure for Penang through one of the world’s largest streaming platforms while generating economic spillover for local businesses and the creative industry.
“The decision by a major Netflix production starring Wahlberg to film in Penang is another significant milestone for the state’s tourism and creative economy, while bringing invaluable international exposure to Penang through one of the world’s largest streaming platforms.
“International productions not only create economic opportunities for local businesses, hotels, transport providers and the creative industry, but also strengthen Penang’s position as a film tourism destination by inspiring audiences worldwide to visit the places they see on screen,” he said in a statement today.
He noted that filming over the past three days has taken place at several heritage and landmark locations on Penang Island, including the Jawi Peranakan Mansion, Cheong Fatt Tze – The Blue Mansion, Lorong Ikan in George Town and the Penang City Stadium.
As The Big Fix, which centres on the world of football, continues production, Wong said additional scenes will be filmed at several football stadiums in Penang and Kuala Lumpur, as well as other locations across the state over the coming week.
He said the filming of The Big Fix is supported through the Film in Malaysia Incentive (FIMI) programme and facilitated by the Office of the Penang State Exco for Tourism and Creative Economy (PETACE) and the Penang Island City Council (MBPP).
He said PETACE had worked closely with Penang Global Tourism, MBPP, the production team and relevant government agencies to facilitate filming throughout the production schedule.
Wong said the latest project builds on Penang’s success in attracting international productions, following the filming of Sandiwara earlier this year, starring Academy Award-winning Malaysian actress Tan Sri Michelle Yeoh.
“The Penang government, through PETACE and in collaboration with Penang Global Tourism and our industry partners, will continue to attract more international productions that create economic value, develop local creative talent and showcase Penang to the world,” he said.
