Pakistan: Pakistani actor and producer Fahad Mustafa has called on the Punjab government to reconsider its current policy on early closing timings for malls and cinemas, stating that the restrictions are negatively impacting the film industry and limiting audience access.
In a letter addressed to Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, shared via Instagram, Mustafa noted that most cinemas operate within shopping malls and are directly affected by the government’s austerity-driven early closure policy.
He argued that the reduced operating hours are hurting recently released films by restricting box office performance during a critical release window. According to him, a modest extension in cinema timings could improve ticket sales, increase revenues for exhibitors and distributors, and support employment in the wider entertainment and hospitality sectors.
Mustafa also said extended hours would offer greater convenience to audiences, particularly those who are only able to attend evening screenings.
“The early closure is affecting recently released films that are relying on this period to reach audiences,” he wrote.
The appeal comes as Mustafa’s latest film Zombeid is currently being screened in cinemas across Pakistan following its Eid-ul-Adha release.
In his letter, he also acknowledged the Punjab government’s support for the entertainment sector, including initiatives such as Film City, describing them as positive developments for the industry.
The Punjab government had earlier introduced fixed closing times for markets and public spaces as part of broader energy-saving and austerity measures.