MDA Gears Up for Inaugural Singapore Media Festival

SINGAPORE: The first-ever Singapore Media Festival (SMF), hosted by the Media Development Authority of Singapore (MDA), kicks off on December 4 with an aim to shine a light on Southeast Asia's growing media industry.

The event combines the Singapore International Film Festival (SGIFF), Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF), ScreenSingapore and the Asian Television Awards. More than 5,000 industry professionals—filmmakers, producers and celebrities—from 60-plus countries are expected to attend the ATF, ScreenSingapore and the Asia TV Awards. An audience of more than 10,000 is expected to participate in the SGIFF.

Robert Gilby, the chairman of the SMF advisory board and managing director of The Walt Disney Company (SEA), commented, “The Southeast Asian media industry has experienced rapid growth and development over the past few years, becoming a source and strong contender of creative and innovative content. Many media industry professionals now recognize the huge potential of Southeast Asia, and are looking to tap into this burgeoning market.”

He added, “SMF aims to ride on this potential to strengthen Singapore’s position as the gateway to the region, and fill the need for a regional media event that will bring together Singapore and Southeast Asian content and talent to be enjoyed by viewers from all over the world.”

Angeline Poh, the assistant chief executive (industry) of the Media Development Authority, added, “International players are increasingly looking to Asia for innovative stories and original content, and SMF aims to create more opportunities for international and Asian media players to meet and explore opportunities for collaboration. Singapore is a focal point for business and talent in Southeast Asia. This makes it a great home for both international and home-grown media companies. SMF leverages the city's connectivity and thriving media sector to serve as a platform for media professionals from Asia and beyond to meet and build meaningful partnerships.”