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THE Government announced a nationwide push to strengthen its creative industry ecosystem through a new youth-focused initiative that includes a RM5 million funding programme, strategic collaborations and expanded opportunities for aspiring filmmakers and digital creators.
The Belia Kreatif Komuniti MADANI programme was officially launched during the closing ceremony of National Youth Day 2026 at Pavilion Bukit Jalil on Sunday, with the initiative spearheaded by the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) under the Communications Ministry.
The programme is designed to empower nearly 16,000 young Malaysians to explore careers and entrepreneurship opportunities within the country’s growing creative sector.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the initiative reflects the government’s recognition of the increasing influence of youth in shaping communication trends, digital culture and the wider creative economy through technology-driven platforms.
“Young people today possess immense power through ideas, creativity and the courage to produce meaningful works using only devices such as smartphones and tablets,” the speech delivered at the launch stated.
The government acknowledged that while the creative industry continues to face financial constraints, project uncertainty and rapid digital disruption, the sector has matured significantly and is now capable of competing internationally with institutional support from FINAS.
Beyond entertainment, the industry was also described as a major contributor to Malaysia’s economy through the development of highly skilled talent and its ability to attract investments worth hundreds of millions of ringgit.
“The future of the industry depends on a young generation that is creative, high-quality and competitive in continuing the nation’s artistic legacy,” the speech added.
As part of the initiative, several programmes have been introduced to strengthen the youth creative ecosystem, including film and creative community workshops, campus engagement initiatives, youth icon programmes and special collaborations involving the Malaysian Youth Council and the Department of Islamic Development Malaysia (JAKIM).
A key announcement made during the launch was the opening of applications for the Dana Pemangkin Generasi MADANI from June 1 to June 30, 2026.
The fund is open to eligible local companies and youth organisations for productions across five categories comprising telemovies, documentaries, short films, short documentaries and animation projects.
“With an allocation totalling RM5 million, the Communications Ministry through FINAS aims to produce content that promotes the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, focusing on strengthening identity, harmony, integrity and social unity in line with principles that respect sensitivities surrounding religion, race and the monarchy,” the statement said.
Authorities also urged qualified applicants to seize the opportunity to continue producing innovative and impactful creative works capable of benefiting society and elevating Malaysia’s creative standing.
In a separate development, FINAS formalised a strategic collaboration with social media platform TikTok, marking a significant step towards integrating digital platforms into Malaysia’s evolving creative industry framework.
Officials said the partnership would help local youth creators expand their international reach through broader technological support, industry exposure and global market access.
“The collaboration between FINAS and TikTok is expected to help more local youths produce, promote and bring their creative works to international markets through wider industry support, technology and global outreach,” the speech stated. - May 24, 2026
