PWD Creative Workshop To Be Expanded Nationwide - Teo

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 13 (Bernama) -- The Basic Vocal and Acting Workshop for Persons with Disabilities (PwD) will be expanded to other states to provide opportunities and uncover new talent, said Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching.

She said the debut workshop, organised by the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS) with Persatuan Seni Warisan Artistik Digital Malaysia, focused on vocal training and radio drama recording.

“This is an important first step, and I believe it won’t be the last. FINAS will select suitable locations across the northern, southern, and eastern zones, as well as Sabah and Sarawak, to run the programme again,” she said at the workshop’s closing ceremony and certificate presentation today.

She said the workshop shows that Malaysia’s creative industry is becoming more inclusive and progressive, supporting greater PwD participation, which aligns with the MADANI Government’s goal of developing creative talent through data-driven planning and targeted investment in human capital.

She said in 2025, FINAS held 18 courses and workshops worth RM1 million for 3,353 participants, as well as 18 community film and youth workshops valued at RM900,000 for 540 participants.

She said that this year, 13 main workshops with RM1 million in funding will host at least 1,900 participants, alongside 80 nationwide community film and youth workshops targeting 2,700 participants.

“I see this community as rich in talent but lacking space and opportunities. Everyone has talent; what’s often missing are the chances to showcase it.

“That’s why we’re opening up these opportunities as true inclusivity begins with full access to learning, including PWD-friendly facilities, supported by FINAS and the MyCreative Ventures programme,” she said.

Teo told reporters that talks with Radio Televisyen Malaysia (RTM) will explore using the trained talent for radio drama productions.

-- BERNAMA