KUALA LUMPUR: The government will launch the first phase of the RM30 million Media Innovation Fund from 1 to 14 January 2026 to boost Malaysia’s media industry.
Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil said the fund aims to keep the media industry relevant, competitive, and resilient, following the Prime Minister’s announcement during this year’s National Journalists Day (Hawana).
The fund, totaling RM30 million, seeks to:
- Encourage the production of creative, interactive, and high-impact media content.
- Strengthen the competencies of media practitioners through training.
- Support industry transformation through innovative projects, including content development, media technology, and digital strategy.
- Enhance the competitiveness of media organizations in delivering accurate, relevant, and beneficial information to the public.
“Eligibility requirements include being a local media company or organisation registered with the Malaysian Department of Information, with employees holding valid media accreditation cards,” said Fahmi.
The fund will cover four main areas:
• Training for media workers: Companies can organize internal programs or send staff to recognised courses.
• Software and technology adaptation: Funding may be used to purchase or lease approved software for high-quality content production, including artificial intelligence (AI) applications.
• Equipment, hardware, and support facilities: Funding can also be used to acquire or lease technical equipment, such as studio and recording devices.
• Research and development (R&D): The fund will support R&D activities, including AI technology adaptation and digital innovation.
Media organisations can access documents and application forms via www.komunikasi.gov.my from Jan 1, 2026 and subsequent phases of the fund will be announced if necessary.
Earlier in the Dewan Negara today, Fahmi expressed concern over the future of media practitioners in the AI era.
He said the fund is intended for journalists and media organisations to leverage the latest technology, helping media outlets avoid laying off employees.
“This is part of the government’s efforts to ensure that media freedom is always protected, that the media industry remains sustainable, and is able to withstand the wave of changes sweeping across the world, including through social media,” he added.
