Kartun Studios under the KRU Group banner will focus on the areas of 2D and 3D animation.
Based in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia), it serves as the animation arm of the KRU group of companies. The outfit will specialise in creating and co-producing original IP, focused on 3D animated feature films as well as 2D and 3D animated TV series.
Y. B. Dato’ Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, the Malaysian minister of communication and multimedia, said in a statement: “The continued development of the communications content and infrastructure (CCI) sector is key for the country as it strives towards achieving a high-income status. Spanning a wide eco-system, the government’s commitment to the CCI Sector has seen numerous initiatives all aimed to encourage development and propel the nation towards a knowledge-based economy. Initiatives, which include the 30 per cent production rebate by FINAS, the rollout of high speed broadband, and the development of digital television networks as of 2015, are part and parcel of preparing the nation to take the next step. As such, I am proud to witness the efforts of the KRU Group in not only having the vision to strengthen their presence internationally through Kartun Studios, but also in developing, training and nurturing the next generation of highly skilled workers through KRU Academy.”
“2D and 3D animation content provide an opportunity for local studios to become major players in the global arena,” KRU Group exec prez and CEO Norman Abdul Halim added. “Take for example, Ribbit, KRU’s first animation feature film – it has been sold to more than 80 countries and will be having its world premiere screening at The Niagara Integrated Film Festival in Canada on June 21, 2014. Kartun Studios will be producing three animation films, 130 3D animation series and 130 2D animation series within the next five years.”