Teo Urges More Indian Artists To Tap MyCreative Ventures Funds

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 7 (Bernama) -- More Indian artists are encouraged to take advantage of the various funding opportunities available through MyCreative Ventures Sdn Bhd (MyCV) to help them grow and showcase their creative works.

Communications Deputy Minister Teo Nie Ching said while the government continues to support the creative sector through MyCV’s grants, financing schemes and loans, the level of participation from the Indian community remains low compared to the overall number of beneficiaries.

“As of Sept 30 this year, a total of 234 beneficiaries have received support under the Creative Content Fund (DKK) managed by MyCV, of which 206 are from Peninsular Malaysia, 16 from Sabah and 12 from Sarawak.

“Out of this total, only eight are Indian-owned companies, receiving a combined amount of over RM700,000. We hope to see more applications from the Indian community, as well as from Chinese-owned companies and creators from Sabah and Sarawak,” she said.

Teo said this at a press conference on the RTM-Astro collaboration held in conjunction with the Deepavali celebration here today.

The deputy minister encouraged Indian musicians, producers and digital content creators to seek application guidance for the DKK fund, which ensures equal opportunities for all, including East Malaysians and other minorities.

Citing the success of Tamil hip hop artist Balan Kash as an example, whose album CEKAP was supported by MyCV, Teo stated that the album combines modern hip hop with traditional Dikir Barat, making Balan only the second Tamil artist to incorporate the traditional Malay art form into his music.

“Two tracks from CEKAP have also been nominated for the 24th Anugerah Industri Muzik (AIM24). This proves that Balan’s work is not only innovative but also recognised by the music industry. He also recently performed at ‘Titikkum Deepavali Kondattam’, adding even more energy and pride to the celebration of local talent.

“So we need to see more Indian artists stepping forward to take up these opportunities. With the right support, your talents can reach greater heights,” she said.

Teo explained that over the four years from 2022 to 2025, MyCV's 18 DKK programmes have resulted in 129 beneficiaries completing their projects and creating over 9,000 job opportunities nationwide, with six programmes completed and 12 still in progress.

Teo said the ministry would continue promoting awareness about MyCV’s ongoing funding opportunities, including the International and Domestic Marketing and Promotion Funds, which remain open for applications until Dec 1.

“We believe many in the industry are aware of the fund, but some may still not know about it. That’s why we’re maximising publicity so more creators can apply. Artists, especially from the Indian community, should take this opportunity,” she said.

-- BERNAMA