Motac Launches ASEAN Artpreneur Retreat 2026, Empowers Creative Talent

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 6 (Bernama) -- The Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture (MOTAC), through the National Art Gallery, launched the ASEAN Artpreneur Retreat 2026 (AAR 2026) today to help creative entrepreneurs transform their ideas into market-ready products and sustainable businesses.

In a statement, MOTAC said the 15-day programme, from Oct 5 to 19, under the theme 'Innovate and Elevate', aims to strengthen entrepreneurial skills, promote knowledge exchange, and expand opportunities within the regional creative economy.

“AAR 2026 combines creative dialogue, mentorship and practical entrepreneurial development, focusing on product development, market readiness, commercialisation and sustainable business models.

“Participants will engage with industry experts and creative practitioners to refine their ideas, understand market needs and strengthen their business capabilities,” the statement said.

Deputy Tourism, Arts and Culture Minister Chiew Choon Man launched the retreat at Menara Kuala Lumpur.

MOTAC noted that the retreat also features alums of the Young Art Entrepreneur (YAE!) programme, who will provide peer mentorship on navigating the market, building brands and scaling up production.

In conjunction with the Visit Malaysia 2026-2027 Campaign, participants will develop new products or services inspired by the campaign’s theme, leveraging local cultural assets to enrich visitor experiences and generate new economic opportunities for creative communities.

“The programme will culminate in a commercial product showcase, presenting the outcomes developed during the retreat and highlighting participants’ ability to translate artistic concepts into offerings with market potential,” it said.

Guided by the Malaysia MADANI principles, AAR 2026 underscores MOTAC's commitment to empowering creative talent, fostering regional collaboration and driving inclusive economic growth across ASEAN.

-- BERNAMA