Film Directors' Association of Malaysia assistant secretary-general Hafiz Ibrahim resigned to protest the segregation of films according to language in the 28th Festival Filem Malaysia.

This comes after an industry boycott was called by actor Afdlin Shauki, following the disqualification of films like 'Jagat' and 'Ola Bola' from winning 'Best Film' because they are not fully in Bahasa Malaysia.

"I am steadfast (in) my view that all Malaysian films should contest without segregation regardless of language at FFM.

"I have formally informed the board of my intention and the status of my resignation is subject to the approval of the board," Hafiz said in a statement on his Facebook page.

He also appended FDAM secretary-general Abdul Rahim Awang's statement supporting the segregation.

Abdul Rahim said there is no element of discrimination as Bahasa Malaysia is the national language, and non-Malay filmmakers can also compete for Best Film if they adhere to the language requirement.

Trophies returned in protest

Earlier cinematographer Mohd Nor Kassim reportedly returned his FFM trophies in protest.

Mohd Nor, who reportedly returned the trophies in trash bags, also withdrew from the Best Cinematographer contest which he is nominated for this year.

"I am Malay but I want to say that this makes it look like Malays are afraid of competition. As a Malay, this is embarrassing.

"Why fear healthy competition?...In film, the most important language is the language of film," he told the Malay Mail Online.

Mohd Noor was FFM 'Best Cinematographer' in 2009 and 2011.

Others who have spoken out against the segregation include the Selangor and Kuala Lumpur Screenwriters' Association president Alfie Palermo.

Films which dialogue are not at least 70 percent in Bahasa Malaysia are also disqualified from contesting for 'Best Cinematographer' and 'Best Screenplay'.

The 'Jagat' production team, which is nominated for nine other awards, yesterday said it will not join the boycott, but thanked those who have supported the cause.

It said it will push for desegregation through dialogue.

Malay rights group Perkasa has condemned Malay film industry professionals for seeking a level playing field for all, arguing that Malays will lose out.

Artistes association Karyawan Malaysia also supports the segregation, arguing that FFM has traditionally promoted films in Bahasa Malaysia.

Three cabinet ministers - Dr S Subramaniam, Azalina Othman and Abdul Rahman Dahlan - have spoken out against the segregation, while Communications and Multimedia Minister Salleh Keruak said he will discuss the matter with the National Film Development Corporation.

FFM organiser, the Malaysian Film Producers' Association (PFM) defended its decision as a means to encourage the use of Bahasa Malaysia.