Malaysian MP calls for new national creative industry policy to help tourism

In a bid to boost Malaysia’s tourism industry and economic performance, member of Democratic Action Party, Syerleena Abdul Rashid called for a national creative industry policy to be crafted. According to media reports, the minister of parliament for Bukit Bendera said that Malaysia’s arts and culture scene has the potential to rake in an influx of tourists. “This, in turn, can help boost the country’s economy and create new job opportunities,” she said in a statement to the parliament, seen by A+M.

In conjunction, the MP also commented on Budget 2023’s allocation for the arts and culture industry, deeming it lacking. She took to her Facebook to recommend greater allocation of funds in order to boost the creative culture of the country, which she believes will cultivate children’s interest and talents in arts and culture. One of the ways she recommended was tightening the licensing system. “We also need to review the “entertainment tax" and the legal framework to reduce the pressure imposed on local artists,” she added.

She cited the impact of COVID-19 on the arts and culture industry to emphasise the need for more funding to revive it.

Don't miss: Malaysia Budget 2023: What businesses and marketers need to know

In Budget 2023, PM Anwar Ibrahim announced a RM250 million budget for the tourism sector, while RM102 million allocated for digital content grants aimed to assist and promote new works in the creative industries, RM25 million for heritage and cultural activities at the community level, and RM20 million for arts and cultural programmes in schools that encourage unity. In Minister Syerleena’s opinion, this is insufficient.

“RM25 million was allocated for arts and culture activities at the community level, and RM 20million for arts and cultural programmes in schools that encourage unity. So, the question is, what will be the effect if this allocation of RM 25 million is shared throughout the entire country?” she asked at the parliament debate.

She reinforced that achieving sustainability and prosperity in the creative-cultural industry, innovative programmes are necessary to empower artists and industry players along with the cash handouts.

(Image courtesy: Syerleena Abdul Rashid's official FB page)

Related articles: 
Malaysia looks to become top international shopping destination
MY tourism ministry to use social media and e-marketing to boost domestic travel
Tourism Malaysia and Indonesian eCommerce platform Blibli partner for tourism recovery