Kuala Lumpur:The government has allocated RM30 million under the Media Innovation Fund 2.0 to enhance the local media industry, focusing on digitalisation, talent development, and the adoption of new technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI).

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil announced that this initiative is a continuation of the Media Innovation Fund introduced by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim during the National Journalists' Day (HAWANA) celebrations in June 2025. The launch of the second phase underscores the government's commitment to ensuring the resilience and relevance of the country's media industry in response to evolving demands.

The previous fund, which also amounted to RM30 million, benefited 72 media companies by supporting various transformation initiatives such as training, operational improvements, and the exploration of new content production and delivery approaches. Applications for the new fund will be open from November 1 to 14, and media organisations can apply online at the fund's official website.

Minister Fahmi highlighted that Media Innovation Fund 2.0 retains four existing funding categories and introduces a new one, raising the total to five categories. The new category focuses on subscriptions to news services and media content, while the other categories include media personnel training, software and technology adoption, equipment and support facilities, and content research and development.

The fund aims to support local media organisations in strengthening their digital transformation by providing resources for training, adopting new technologies, upgrading equipment, and developing content. Eligibility is restricted to local media organisations or companies registered with the Malaysian Information Department (JAPEN) for at least six months, operating an active publishing platform, and holding valid Media Accreditation Cards (KPM) when applications open.