Kuala Lumpur: The Concert and Event in Malaysia Incentives (CEMI), a financial rebate initiative launched by the Communications Ministry via MyCreative Ventures (MyCV), has garnered 37 applications since it was introduced on May 15. This was revealed by Deputy Communications Minister Teo Nie Ching, who emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting the local creative industry.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the Malaysian government has earmarked RM10 million for CEMI to foster strategic partnerships in concert and event management nationwide. Teo expressed her hope that industry stakeholders, particularly those based in Sabah, would leverage this opportunity by applying for the incentive before the July 10, 2025 deadline.

CEMI provides support for concerts and events featuring both international and local artists, specifically targeting large-scale events with an audience of 15,000 or more. Teo highlighted the positive impact of the concert industry on Malaysia’s economy, noting that in 2023, 335 international concerts generated over RM498 million, a figure that rose to RM553 million from 408 concerts in 2024.

In addition to CEMI, Teo called on the arts and creative communities in Sabah and Sarawak to apply for the 2025 Creative Content Fund (DKK). The government has allocated RM6.3 million for DKK, which includes three programs such as the Music Performance Fund, open for applications until June 30. The International Marketing and Promotion Fund and the Domestic Marketing and Promotion Fund have a deadline of December 1 for submissions, all of which can be made through the MyCV portal.

During a recent event, the Sandakan Creative Arts and Local Musicians Association was awarded RM80,000 under DKK’s Music Performance Fund, aimed at supporting the upcoming Sandakan Nature City Loud Festival 2025. This initiative is part of broader efforts to engage the local arts and creative communities and encourage participation in available funding opportunities.