KUALA LUMPUR – Local media organisations registered with the Malaysian Department of Information (JAPEN) and meeting eligibility criteria still have time to apply for the government’s Media Innovation Fund, with two more application phases scheduled for early February and March.
Communications Ministry secretary‑general Datuk Abdul Halim Hamzah said the initiative reflects the government’s digital future agenda, as discussed during the Cabinet retreat on Jan 10 and 11, and demonstrates continuity in strategic planning to strengthen Malaysia’s media and communications ecosystem.
“The Media Innovation Fund announced by the government is open to eligible applicants. Phase One, which ran from Jan 1 to 14, has already concluded. There will be two more phases opening, one in early February, followed by the third phase in early March… so those who missed the first phase still have the opportunity to apply,” he told Bernama.
He was speaking after the Communications Ministry’s 2026 Strategic Direction Working Group Meeting, a three‑day programme held here from Jan 23 to 25 to reinforce coordination and alignment among the ministry and its agencies.
The meeting was attended by Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil, Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching, Bernama chief executive officer Datin Paduka Nur‑ul Afida Kamaludin, editor‑in‑chief Arul Rajoo Durar Raj, and senior management from agencies under the ministry, including Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) and the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS).
Abdul Halim added that the ministry is also exploring new opportunities in the media sector through initiatives such as the National Journalists’ Day (HAWANA) and the establishment of the Malaysian Media Council.
On Dec 18, Fahmi said the Media Innovation Fund is designed to support the transformation of the national media industry, ensuring it remains relevant, competitive and resilient in the digital era.
The fund follows Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s announcement during HAWANA 2025 of a RM30 million allocation to support the initiative.
Further details and application forms are available on the Communications Ministry website at www.komunikasi.gov.my. – January 24, 2026