Media Innovation Fund 2.0 opens with RM30 million for local media

1 November 2026 · News · Design & marketing

Communications Minister Fahmi Fadzil announced on 30 October a RM30 million Media Innovation Fund 2.0, with applications open from 1 to 14 November for media companies registered with JAPEN. Eligible newsrooms can use it for training, software, equipment and content R&D, so publishers planning digital or AI projects have a two-week window to scope the work and line up suppliers.

What was announced

Communications Minister Datuk Seri Fahmi Fadzil announced the second round of the Media Innovation Fund after a Cabinet meeting on 30 October 2026, with an allocation of RM30 million. Bernama reported that 72 media companies received money from the earlier allocation, which the Prime Minister announced at the national journalists' day event in June 2025.

The fund focuses on digitalisation, talent development and the adoption of new technology, including artificial intelligence. Applications are made online through the fund's website and are open from 1 to 14 November.

Five funding categories

The new round keeps the four earlier categories and adds one for subscriptions to news services and media content.

Subscriptions to news services and media content (new).
Training for media personnel.
Software and technology adoption.
Equipment, hardware and support facilities.
Content research and development.

Who can apply and the conditions

Applicants must be local media organisations registered with the Information Department (JAPEN) for at least six months, run an active publishing platform such as a news portal or newspaper, and hold valid media accreditation cards when applications open.

On 31 October the minister added that recipients should not lay off staff arbitrarily, even under financial pressure, and said layoffs should be a last resort. He said he had heard that some earlier recipients had cut staff, but that the reasons were still being established.

What it means for media companies and their suppliers

With only two weeks to apply, publishers will need clear project scopes and quotes ready. Software and AI developers, video production houses and training providers that work with newsrooms may see more requests for proposals in November. Publishers comparing suppliers can ask for itemised quotes that map to a single funding category, which makes the application and later reporting simpler.

Suppliers should also note the eligibility rules: only JAPEN-registered local media organisations can apply, so agencies and vendors cannot apply on a client's behalf, and any work funded will need to fit within the categories listed above.

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Sources

Media Innovation Fund 2.0 allocates RM30 mln, offers five funding categories — Bernama
Media layoffs should be last resort, says Fahmi — The Star
Media Innovation Fund recipients must avoid arbitrary layoffs - Fahmi — Bernama

Editorial summary written by Best Malaysia Services. Not legal, tax or financial advice; check the original sources.