KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia's video gaming industry is expected to generate US$694 million (RM2.88 billion) in revenue this year, according to Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo.
Gobind said the market is expected to maintain a steady annual growth rate of 7.5 per cent, projecting a market value of about US$807 million (RM3.35 billion) by 2027.
"The gaming industry has emerged as a powerhouse of innovation and digitilisation. It is a place of creative creativity and economic potential.
"Investment, therefore, in the digital content sector in Malaysia has grown from RM550 billion in 2022 to RM1.6 billion last year.
"This will ensure the highest-income jobs for Malaysian digital status companies.
"It also shows that the digital creative industry is the most significant driver of growth for Malaysia and there is plenty of interest shown in the industry," he said.
Gobind made these remarks during the launch of Xsolla Curine Academy (XCA), an institution aimed at equipping game developers with essential skills for a successful career in the industry.
Also present were Raja Muda of Selangor, Tengku Amir Shah Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) chief executive officer Mahadhir Aziz, XCA co-founder Kaveh Wong and Xsolla president David Stelzer.
Mahadhir said the newly launched academy for gamers goes beyond skill building; it serves as a catalyst for propelling the gaming industry.
"MDEC is very passionate about nurturing talent, fostering creativity and enabling growth in the digital economy.
"This establishment of the XCA marks a monumental leap forward in offering a dynamic platform for more budding game developers, designers.
"By nurturing talent and fostering collaboration, the academy serves as a springboard for pioneering ideas and groundwork advancements shaping the trajectory for gaming innovation for generations."
Xsolla president David Stelzer said the academy is essential to democratise game development and propel Malaysian and Asean talent onto the global stage.
"By providing local developers with unparalleled access to global expertise, resources, and networks, we're not just bridging the gap between talent and industry but fostering a community where innovation flourishes.
"Our commitment through XCA is to empower game developers to realise their full potential and contribute to a thriving global gaming ecosystem."
