Media Innovation Fund To Accelerate Transformation - MPI

PUTRAJAYA, Dec 19 (Bernama) -- The Malaysian Press Institute (MPI) describes the opening of the RM30 million Media Innovation Fund on Jan 1, 2026, as a strategic and timely step in accelerating the transformation of the local media industry.

Its chief executive officer, Dr. Ainol Amriz Ismail said the initiative is a serious commitment by the government to ensure the country's media ecosystem remains relevant, competitive and resilient, in line with the challenges of the digital era and rapid technological advancements, particularly artificial intelligence (AI).

“MPI sees this Media Innovation Fund not just as financial support, but as a catalyst for media innovation and transition towards more creative, impactful and technology-oriented journalism models.

"It is also in line with the aspirations of the MADANI Government, which emphasises human development, sustainability and national competitiveness," he said in a statement today.

According to Ainol, the emphasis on funding for media worker training, technology adaptation, software, equipment, and content research and development (R&D) is in line with the industry's current real needs, especially in facing changes in the media landscape, audience behaviour and digital content requirements.

MPI believes that the development of journalist and media practitioner competencies through structured training is the key to the success of industry transformation.

"Today's mass media not only needs to be fast but also factual, ethical, and capable of responsibly utilising new technologies such as automation, data analytics and digital platforms," he said.

He also described the eligibility requirements set, including registration with the Malaysian Information Department (JAPEN) and possession of an active Media Accreditation Card, as important steps to ensure that the funds are disbursed with integrity and benefit media organisations that are truly committed to professionalism.

He said MPI is ready to collaborate with the Ministry of Communications and other stakeholders in supporting the implementation of the Media Innovation Fund, particularly through the council's role as a professional training institution in strengthening the capacity, skills, and preparedness of media practitioners for the future of the industry.

"This effort should be seen as the country's long-term investment in the media industry, which plays a strategic role in delivering accurate information, shaping public discourse, and supporting national development in an increasingly complex digital ecosystem," he said.

Yesterday, Communications Minister Datuk Fahmi Fadzil announced that the Media Innovation Fund for Phase 1 will open from Jan 1 to 14, 2026, aimed at supporting the transformation of the country's media industry to remain relevant, competitive and resilient in the digital era.

According to Fahmi, the funds follow Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's announcement during the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) 2025 celebration regarding the provision of RM30 million in financial assistance.

-- BERNAMA