YOUNG TALENT       CREATIVE INDUSTRY        GLOBALISATION

Malaysia – The creative industry in Malaysia needs young talent to develop its global brands, said Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

"Roy Disney once remarked that creativity is a funny thing – difficult to quantify, but obvious when it's missing. With the creative industries contributing only 1.6% of our country's GDP, I think it's time to admit that Disney's 'X' factor is missing here," he said.

Najib’s speech at the Putra Brand Awards ceremony last week was read out by his deputy, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, the New Straits Times reported.

In order to slow down the country’s brain drain, Najib said the engagement of young talent has to happen quickly. This is despite the success stories seen by Malaysian brands such as AirAsia, DiGi, Celcom and Petronas.

"The government is investing in new high-growth industries as part of the Economic Transformation Programme and working to forge a bold new path,” he said. “We also need everyone in the industry to aspire to excel, to seize the opportunities the country presents and to make the most of the rich resources available."

Najib said defining Malaysia’s creative identity “clearly, proudly and unashamedly” will help the country move forward. In time, he said, the mention of Malaysia should invoke strong and positive associations around the world; similar to those of the French cinema, Italian fashion and Japanese electronics.

Social media has also helped to create new opportunities, demands and audiences for younger talent.  

"I'm proud to have more than half a million followers on Twitter – not that I'm counting, though if I were, I might be forced to admit that I'm still a little short of Lady Gaga,” he joked.

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