Putrajaya: Applications for Phase 1 of the Media Innovation Fund, aimed at strengthening the national media ecosystem through technology adoption and talent development, are open from Jan 1 until 14. The Ministry of Communications, in a Facebook post today, said applications are open to media organisations registered with the Information Department as well as personnel holding a Media Accreditation Card.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the funding covers four main scopes, namely media training to enhance the skills of media practitioners, technology encompassing software and the adoption of the latest technologies. The equipment scope includes the purchase or rental of technical equipment, as well as research and development covering content innovation, including the use of artificial intelligence (AI).

The ministry also said that within the training scope, funding covers training on new technologies or methodologies, as well as the cost of organising or participating in training programmes. The technology scope covers funding for audio, video, AI, automation, or graphics software that supports content production.

The scope for equipment, hardware and supporting facilities includes funding for cameras, computers, audio equipment, small studios, servers and other ICT equipment. Content research and development involves funding for studies on the development of innovative content, including the use of AI and new technologies. According to the post, completed application forms may be submitted by hand to the Media Innovation Fund secretariat at the Ministry of Communications in Putrajaya or via email to komunikasi.gov.my on or before Jan 14.