Category: culture

Malaysia targets US$36 mil in gaming exports at Level UP KL 2025 Homegrown hits like Upin & Ipin Universe and Gigabash prove local studios’ global appeal “Our ecosystem is thriving with world-class studios, visionary developers, and a creative economy that commands international attention,” declared digital minister Gobind Singh Deo (pic) in his opening remarks at Level UP KL 2025. “Malaysia is no longer just a participant in the global games and creative content industry. We are a regional hub.” Hosted by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) from 6 to 8 October, the three-day event has evolved from a modest meetup of gaming enthusiasts into Southeast Asia’s premier games industry conference. Now in its 11th year, Level UP KL has become a space where national progress meets regional ambition. It’s where developers meet publishers, ideas become prototypes, and Southeast Asia’s digital games community finds its collective voice. This year’s edition drew over 2, 500 delegates from over 20 countries, featuring 70 exhibitors, 350 business meetings, and US$36 million (RM150 million) in projected export opportunities. Gobind also highlighted US$3. 6 million (RM15 million) in MDEC-led incentives to strengthen Malaysia’s creative ecosystem, including US$830,000 (RM3. 5 million) under the Digital Games Testbed Programme (DGTP) to help local studios explore new genres, co-produce, and collaborate globally. [RM1 = US$0. 22] “These initiatives go beyond building an industry,” Gobind said. “They are about empowering creators, driving innovation, and securing Malaysia’s rightful place in the global digital economy.” Powering Malaysia’s orange economy In his opening remarks, MDEC CEO Anuar Fariz Fadzil reaffirmed the agency’s mission to strengthen the nation’s creative economy. “At MDEC, our mission is clear. To position Malaysia as the region’s leading digital creative powerhouse,” said Anuar. “It’s not just about making great games. It’s about creating real economic impact. This industry creates jobs, drives GDP growth, and fuels the kind of passion that builds nations.” Anuar noted that Malaysia’s digital content, gaming, and animation sectors are recognised as key national growth drivers under the 13th Malaysia Plan, which identifies the Orange Economy, Malaysia’s creative and cultural industries, as a vital engine of economic expansion. “By 2030, the Orange Economy is projected to contribute nearly RM32 billion to Malaysia’s GDP, powered by advancements in digital content, film, animation, and gaming,” he said. “Through programmes such as the Digital Content Grant, the Digital Games Testbed Programme, and the Level UP Accelerator Incubator, we continue to nurture a thriving ecosystem for game studios, entrepreneurs, and storytellers to innovate, scale, and succeed globally.” He added that through the MDX Digital Content Ecosystem (DICE) Roadmap 2026-2030, MDEC aims to strengthen local IP ownership, expand export markets, and embed AI tools across creative workflows, driving greater productivity, innovation, and global competitiveness in Malaysia’s creative sector. Made in Malaysia, played worldwide Malaysia’s games industry has come of age, and its creative impact is now felt far beyond its borders. From blockbuster titles to indie hits, from e-sports arenas to immersive storytelling, the country is shaping the next chapter of digital entertainment. “Over the years, Level UP KL has been a launchpad for success stories from local game developers who have gone on to make their mark globally,” Gobind said. Among the standout success stories is Les’ Copaque Production, which, in collaboration with Streamline Studios, launched Upin & Ipin Universe in July 2025. It’s an open-world adventure inspired by Southeast Asian culture and the beloved animated series. With more than 60 local and international awards, Les’ Copaque’s expansion into gaming marks a milestone in bringing Malaysian heritage to global audiences through interactive storytelling. Another global hit is Gigabash by Passion Republic, winner of Best in Play at the 2022 Game Developers Conference in San Francisco. The studio is also renowned for its work on global blockbusters such as Elden Ring, The Last of Us, and Spider-Man. Malaysia’s creative edge also shines through Metronomik, the studio behind No Straight Roads, which Forbes hailed as “one of the greatest games of 2020.” Supported by MDEC’s Digital Content Grant and DGTP, Metronomik is now collaborating with Japan’s Shueisha Games the iconic publisher of Dragon Ball Z and Naruto, on No Straight Roads 2. “These strategic alliances not only elevate Malaysia’s position in the global gaming industry but also reflect the creative synergy and international confidence in our homegrown studios,” said Gobind. “Our local digital game companies are not just ready for the global stage, they’re already shining on it.” Leveling up for the future With nationwide 5G now delivering high-speed, low-latency connectivity, Malaysia’s game developers have more room than ever to innovate creating richer, faster, and more immersive experiences for global audiences. “Industry leaders must tell us what they need to succeed in the next decade. Our role in government is to understand those needs, build the right ecosystem, and ensure that the structures and facilities are in place for you to thrive,” Gobind said. He added, “That’s why it’s crucial for industry leaders, creative minds, and policymakers to come together, to turn conversations into action. Agencies like MDEC play a vital role in translating these dialogues into policies that truly help you succeed.” As Malaysia strides into the AI Nation Decade and looks toward a digitally driven future, Anuar offered a reminder to reflect upon. “Every story we tell adds to our nation’s cultural capital, and every partnership we form strengthens Malaysia’s place in the global creative network. Together, we can build a nation where creativity is currency, talent is limitless, and the world plays stories together.”.