This year, Malaysia made a significant impact at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival. Over the years, the country has showcased more than 100 studios and presented approximately 50 projects, highlighting export opportunities worth nearly US$200 million.
The Malaysian government, recognising this potential, is fully committed to advancing its local animation content on the global stage. “Malaysia is definitely going to be looking out for what is latest. We are going to produce and keep up with the requirements of time,” stated Malaysia’s Minister of Digital Gobind Singh Deo in an exclusive interview with AnimationXpress at Annecy 2024.
Minister Deo, leading a delegation at the festival, shared insights into the government’s strategy to internationalise Malaysia’s indigenous animation through the country’s DICE (Digital Content Ecosystem) policy, launched in 2019. Developed in collaboration with Malaysia’s Ministry of Digital, and the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), the policy aims to strengthen the country’s digital content industry.
“With the DICE policy, our goal is to position Malaysia as a hub for animation and digital content by 2030,” shared Deo. To achieve this vision, his team is focussing on certain specific areas. “Firstly, talent development is crucial, given the specialised nature of animation production.” The government, in partnership with MDEC, has already trained over 1300 professionals across various production stages and is keen on attracting international talent for collaborative ventures.
“Secondly, we focus on creating intellectual properties and securing their commercial value,” he emphasised. “Thirdly, we aim to build a self-sustaining ecosystem. The animation industry has unique needs, so understanding these needs is crucial for effective government support. And lastly, we want to build a global product of international standards and ensure that it is marketed well.”
Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity serves as a cornerstone of its animation ambitions. “Our diversity is our strength,” he said. “Each region boasts unique cultural heritage, offering untapped storytelling potential that holds immense global appeal.”
While the Malaysian government supports the animation industry with grants, it also seeks private sector involvement. Deo acknowledged that private funding often seeks returns on investment, prompting the government to explore incentives that ensure attractive returns for investors.
“We are committed to supporting this industry because it is a key way for Malaysia to gain global recognition,” he stressed. And keeping up with technological advancements like AI and metaverse, Deo has pledged to create policies that are flexible enough to adopt change and prepare the industry for what it needs to succeed.
“Animation is an industry that treasures the cultural narratives of nations worldwide, and that’s precisely what we aim to achieve,” concluded Deo.