Malaysia plans to expand cultural collaboration with Indonesia through joint radio programmes and a new ‘Malay storyboard’ film training initiative.
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia is seeking to deepen cultural ties with Indonesia through enhanced collaborations in radio broadcasting and film.
Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching said opportunities for content sharing are vast, given the nations’ shared culture and language.
“I believe Malaysia and Indonesia share the same culture and language. So, there are a lot of opportunities for content collaboration, not just cultural content but also news,” she stated in an interview broadcast on Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and Radio Republik Indonesia (RRI).
She emphasised that the strong rapport between the countries’ leaders should translate into stronger people-to-people connections.
Teo revealed a new initiative for joint film production during her working visit to Jakarta for National Press Day 2026.
She discussed a ‘Malay storyboard’ plan with Indonesian cultural representatives to train young producers from both nations.
The goal is to develop films centred on shared Malay heritage, with productions potentially starting this year.
Teo confirmed that RTM and RRI will intensify their programme collaborations, reviving dormant initiatives like ‘Salam Serumpun’.
Further cooperation could include content sharing, joint news production, and training programmes.
The collaboration between the national broadcasters is especially symbolic this year.
RTM is celebrating its 80th anniversary, while RRI marks its 81st.
