The Digital Ministry and the Sarawak State Government will jointly host the inaugural Borneo Animation & Games Festival (BAGF) in Kuching in August next year, marking a major push to position the state as a regional hub for digital creativity.
Digital Minister Gobind Singh Deo said the decision followed a courtesy call on the Premier of Sarawak, Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg this morning, during which the Premier agreed to host the global-scale event in the state capital.
The festival, organised by the Ministry of Digital through the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), will run for five days in the third week of August 2026. It will feature three days of business-focused programmes and two days of public festivities across Kuching City Centre.
Gobind said BAGF 2026 is designed to be an international-class showcase that supports Sarawak’s ambition to become the heart of Southeast Asia’s digital creative industry.
“Our goal is twofold – to discover and nurture exceptional local talent, and to attract high-value foreign investment into Sarawak,” he said.
The festival is expected to draw more than 300 industry delegates, with 40 per cent projected to be international participants. Over 200 exhibitors are targeted, alongside engagement from major global studios such as Walt Disney, DreamWorks, Netflix, Sony Pictures Animation, Konami, and Nintendo.
A key feature will be business development sessions, including Business Matching and an ‘Elevator Pitch’ platform to allow local creators to present their ideas directly to global investors and buyers.
Gobind said a joint committee involving state agencies and the Digital Ministry will be formed to coordinate planning and execution. The proposal will be presented to the Cabinet by the first quarter of next year.
He added that two areas of support are vital to ensure the festival’s long-term success – strengthened digital infrastructure to cater to the industry’s high technical demands, and talent development through deeper collaboration with Sarawak’s higher education institutions.
“These efforts will help build a resilient digital creative ecosystem that creates real economic opportunities for the people of Sarawak,” he said.
Gobind said the ministry will continue working closely with the Premier’s Office and relevant state bodies to turn BAGF 2026 into a flagship annual event for the region.
