The Asia TV Forum & Market (ATF) 2024 officially opened yesterday, December 4, in Singapore, with Tan Kiat How, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Digital Development and Information, delivering the keynote address. His speech highlighted the growing importance of the creative and media industries in Singapore’s economic and cultural landscape, as well as the broader Asia-Pacific region’s role in shaping the global entertainment market.
Kiat Howemphasized the APAC region’s position as a focal point for audiovisual production and consumption, supported by a collaborative network of countries and organizations. ‘Asia is not just a market but a creator of stories that resonate globally’, he remarked.
Acknowledging the contributions of international organizations, such as Creative Europe Media, Innovate UK, and commissions from countries like China, South Korea, Japan, and India, the delegate highlighted the growing interconnectedness of global media ecosystems.
Singapore’s expanding media ecosystem
The executive pointed to the growth of the Singapore Media Festival, which now encompasses events like the Singapore International Film Festival, celebrating its 25th year, and Singapore Comic Con. These developments, he stated, ‘reflect advancements in technology and the increasing influence of global tech players like Samsung and Apple’.
Highlighting the role of ATF as a platform for global collaboration, Kiat How noted, ‘in the past year alone, ATF facilitated deals worth over US$327 million, demonstrating its impact on the international media market’. He also underscored the participation of major global players like Disney, Netflix, and Viu as evidence of ATF’s status as a key forum for the industry.
The minister also introduced initiatives like the Media Skills Framework, a roadmap that identifies 195 job roles across nine key areas. This framework supports emerging technologies, including virtual production and generative AI. Kiat How emphasized how Singapore-based studios, such as OxxInfinite and Oceanus Media Global, are leveraging these technologies to support international productions.
Singapore’s media ecosystem, he argued, is built on a foundation of talent development and technological investment. ‘Our training programs and apprenticeships with international experts are preparing Singaporean creators to lead in the entertainment industry’, referencing successful individuals like Yen Wee and Muhammad Gufran Bin Muhammad Jasnis, whose work showcases the integration of advanced technology in storytelling.
Singaporean filmmakers’ achievements on international stages, including Cannes and the Golden Horse Awards, further underscore the nation’s commitment to developing original stories that resonate globally.
