Malaysia pushes local digital creators to own IP and expand globally

At the LEVEL UP KL 2026 ceremony in Kuala Lumpur, Deputy Digital Minister Wilson Ugak Kumbong announced a five-year Digital Creative Ecosystem Roadmap designed to position Malaysia as a global digital-creative hub. The strategy sets goals of RM9 billion in sector revenue, RM6 billion in exports, RM6 billion in strategic investments and the creation of 10,000 high-value jobs by 2030. Priorities include strengthening human capital, commercialising intellectual property, securing high-value foreign investment and building a national brand through exports.

Kumbong stressed that the country’s 45+ higher-learning institutions must equip graduates with practical skills and industry experience. He also highlighted the need to protect IP and respect creators’ rights as technology reshapes the sector. Platforms such as LEVEL UP KL, organized by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation, are intended to connect local studios with investors and global markets.