Malaysia has taken a major step to strengthen its creative economy by convening the first meeting of the Orange Economy Council (MEJ) for 2026, aimed at setting the strategic direction for the country’s creative sector.

The newly established council serves as the nation’s highest policymaking body for the Orange Economy, tasked with driving the development of Malaysia’s creative ecosystem through a strategic, coordinated and collaborative approach.

The council is expected to improve governance of the creative industry while strengthening cooperation among government agencies, industry players and other stakeholders.

As the government’s principal advisory body on the Orange Economy, the MEJ will oversee the planning, implementation and monitoring of national initiatives to promote the creative economy in a comprehensive and sustainable manner.

Its key responsibilities include formulating national policies and strategies, identifying challenges and new growth opportunities, and strengthening creative sectors such as arts, culture, media, digital content, film, music, design and innovation.

Chairing the inaugural meeting, the council’s leadership expressed confidence that the MEJ would spearhead an inclusive transformation of Malaysia’s creative industries in line with the aspirations of Malaysia MADANI, which promotes humanity, creativity, innovation and sustainable economic growth.

The establishment of the council underscores the Malaysian government’s commitment to positioning the creative economy as a key driver of economic growth, employment generation and global competitiveness, while creating greater opportunities for local creative talent.