Netflix answers challenges in Malaysia with localisation

Varying demographics and cultural nuances were some of the biggest challenges Netflix faced in its entrance into Malaysia, revealed the video streaming platform in a press statement. Looking back on its three years in Malaysia, Netflix recalled tackling issues on breadth and depth of content as well as criticisms on value for money among consumers.The digital taxation on international online service providers by the newly-elected Malaysian government in 2018 also did not make it easier for Netflix, the statement said. However, Netflix overcame the challenges by localising its content offering.Over the years, it has launched Asian content from Korean dramas and variety shows to production by Asian storytellers. In 2019, Netflix is increasing its investment in over 100 new and returning originals from Asian storytellers across eight countries in Asia. To remove language barriers and deliver the best television experience, Netflix also invested heavily on subtitling and dubbing with localised user interfaces in Thai, Korean, Traditional and Simplified Chinese and Japanese.Netflix said: "The last three years have been a priceless learning journey for Netflix in understanding the Malaysian market, which has only increased the streaming service’s desire to provide the best form of quality entertainment to its members whilst continuously enhancing the way Malaysians consume content."In November, Netflix unveiled a mobile-only plan for subscribers in Malaysia. Netflix users are able to subscribe to the plan through the mobile app or through the website accessed by a smartphone. In a statement to A+M, a Netflix spokesperson said then that the platform was testing to understand consumer interest in a mobile-only plan introduced in some countries.Read more:Netflix steers clear of Apple TV: What does it really stand to gain?Netflix grows Asian content slate