Malaysia reinforces its commitment to strengthening the ASEAN creative economy through collaboration, innovation, and strategic partnerships with the United Kingdom. The symposium in Manila highlights the growing role of cultural industries in regional development
Malaysia reaffirmed its dedication to advancing the regional creative economy at the 2nd ASEAN-UK Creative Economy Symposium, held in Manila on 14–15 March 2026. Representing the Chairman of SOMCA, YBhg. Dato’ Mohd Yusri bin Mohd Yusoff, Deputy Secretary General (Culture) at the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia, underscored the nation’s proactive role in shaping a resilient and innovative creative ecosystem across ASEAN.
The symposium served as a key platform for dialogue and collaboration between ASEAN member states and the United Kingdom, focusing on enhancing the contribution of cultural and creative industries to economic growth. Malaysia shared its national initiatives aimed at strengthening the creative sector, including policies that support talent development, digital transformation, and cross-border creative exchange.
Discussions also highlighted the increasing importance of cultural industries as drivers of employment and inclusive economic progress. Malaysia emphasised how investments in the creative economy not only generate new job opportunities but also preserve cultural heritage while fostering innovation. These efforts align with broader regional goals to position ASEAN as a dynamic hub for creative industries on the global stage.
In addition, the symposium facilitated strategic conversations on deepening cooperation between ASEAN and the United Kingdom. Collaborative opportunities explored included capacity-building programmes, knowledge sharing, and the development of sustainable creative business models that can adapt to evolving global demands.
Malaysia’s participation reflects its continued commitment to consolidating the ASEAN creative economy ecosystem through regional partnerships, innovation, and shared expertise. As ASEAN moves forward, such engagements are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping a more connected, competitive, and future-ready creative landscape.
Source: Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture Malaysia (MOTAC)
