Malaysia to Expand Creative Content Industry

CANNES: Malaysian Communications and Multimedia Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Shabery Cheek has revealed Malaysia's plans to form a competitive creative content hub in Asia and desire to lure international entertainment producers attending MIPCOM.

One of the reasons why the country could be considered a cost-competitive regional hub is due to Pinewood Studios' and Astro TV's investment in new state-of-the-art production facilities. Another is the production of such successful CGI animations as Life of Pi and Snow White and the Huntsman. The country also boasts a skilled workforce and a high level of English proficiency, among other appealing accomplishments.

"Malaysia offers industry investors state-of-the-art infrastructure, attractive incentives and funds, skilled talent and award-winning creative content expertise," noted the Minister. "We strongly encourage film, TV, game and entertainment producers to experience and benefit from our facilities, strategic location and business-friendly environment."

"Malaysia is embarking on an unprecedented push to grow Malaysia's creative content industry through its Economic Transformation Program," he added. "In addition to developing communications infrastructure and facilitating access to funds granted by industry associations and national agencies, we offer a 30-percent cash rebate to local and foreign production companies for development of film, TV and on screen productions when filming in Malaysia."