KOTA KINABALU: Creative and artistic practitioners in Sabah are being urged to work together with the state government to develop a competitive creative economy ecosystem, while simultaneously creating more employment and entrepreneurial opportunities for young people.
Sabah’s Minister of Youth Development, Sports Advancement, and Creative Economy, Datuk Nizam Abu Bakar Titingan, stated that the cultural and creative industries have the potential to become a new driver of economic growth through the production of creative works, digital content, innovation, performing arts, filmmaking, music, and intellectual property development.
He said Malaysia’s cultural and creative industries contributed RM130.7 billion to the national economy in 2024, equivalent to 6.8 percent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP). Creative product exports reached RM63 billion, representing a 12.4 percent increase compared to the previous year.
“These figures demonstrate that the creative economy extends beyond art and entertainment; it possesses substantial economic value in generating income, creating employment, and opening market opportunities at both national and international levels.
“Its development requires structured planning and collaboration among government, associations, practitioners, and the private sector. The perspectives of practitioners are essential for understanding the sector’s actual needs and identifying opportunities for Sabah’s talent and creative works to flourish,” he said.
He made these remarks after a courtesy visit from a delegation of the Sabah Creative Associations Federation (KREATIF SABAH), led by its chairman, Chester Pang, at his office in Wisma MUIS on Monday.
During the meeting, the delegation presented the functions, activities, membership, and direction of the federation as a platform for uniting arts and creative associations in Sabah.
