PRESS RELEASE
ADVANCING MALAYSIA’S DIGITAL
CREATIVE INDUSTRY TOWARDS AI NATION
2030
KUALA LUMPUR, 30 January 2026 - Malaysia’s digital
creative industry continues to record strong economic
contributions while elevating Malaysian-made content and
talent on the global stage. This reflects years of strategic
development in high growth segments of digital content,
particularly in animation and digital games, driven by longterm
government commitment and strong industry
leadership.
To date, Malaysia’s digital creative industry has
generated RM92.5 billion in revenue and RM12.1
billion in exports, created over 11,000 high-value jobs
and attracted RM85.7 billion in investments.
“Malaysia’s digital creative industry is a testament to the
strength of our national vision and the power of local
talent. From animation and games to emerging creative
technologies, Malaysians continue to prove that our
creativity stands at the forefront of global creative
excellence,” said YB Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of
Digital.
Led by the Ministry of Digital and anchored by the
Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), this sector
drives strong policy alignment, activates industry
programmes, ensures world-class infrastructure, and
possesses deep talent pipeline. Malaysia has become a
trusted base for global studios and publishers seeking
access to ASEAN’s fast-growing consumer markets.
Malaysia’s animation sector has expanded rapidly,
attracting international studios and co-production partners
to the country. Collaborations with major global players
have strengthened local talent pipelines, enhanced
production capabilities, and accelerated the development
of original IPs.
Today, Malaysia’s animation ecosystem stands stronger
than ever. Iconic homegrown IPs such as Upin & Ipin,
Didi & Friends, Ejen Ali, and Mechamato – created and
driven by Malaysian talent - have risen to regional and
global prominence.
Recently, Papa Zola the Movie emerged as the highestgrossing
Malaysian animated film of all time, drawing
approximately 4 million viewers and generating over RM60
million in box-office revenue across Malaysia and Brunei.
Alongside animation, Malaysia’s digital games is a vibrant
and fast-expanding industry powered by homegrown
studios that have become household names across the
region. Malaysian creators and developers are
contributing to both independent titles and major, largescale
productions, including AAA (Triple-A) games. These
are driven by studios such as 7th Beat Games, Passion
Republic Games, and Kurechii Studios - all of which
have been supported through the government’s Digital
Content grants, international showcases, and industry
development programmes.
Malaysia’s growing reputation as a trusted creative digital
hub is reinforced by a series of major international
investments. One of the most significant milestones is
Sony’s decision to establish its first-ever expansion
outside Japan in Malaysia, a clear endorsement of the
nation’s talent pipeline, production capability, and digital
infrastructure.
Celebrating its 30th anniversary this year MDEC has played
a central role in building, nurturing, and advancing the
animation sector over many years. To ensure continued
growth and long-term competitiveness, the Digital
Creative Ecosystem (DICE) Roadmap 2026 - 2030 is
currently being finalised and will be announced very soon.
The digital creative industry remains a vital pillar of
Malaysia’s innovation landscape, driving economic impact,
job creation, and global cultural influence, while
showcasing Malaysian talent, identity, and creativity on the
world stage.
– END –
Issued by:
The Office of the Minister of Digital