Cyberjaya, Malaysia 18th June 2014 – The KRU Group is pleased to introduce the latest addition to its stable of companies… “Kartun Studios”. Its launch, which was officiated by Y.B. Dato’ Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek, Minister of Communication and Multimedia, unveiled that Kartun Studios was formed in line with the Group’s objective to expand into the areas of 2D and 3D animation

“The continued development of the Communications Content and Infrastructure (CCI) Sector is key for the country as it strives towards achieving a high-income status. Spanning a wide eco-system, the Government’s commitment to the CCI Sector has seen numerous initiatives all aimed to encourage development and propel the nation towards a knowledge-based economy. Initiatives, which include the 30% production rebate by FINAS, the roll-out of high speed broadband, and the development of digital television networks as of 2015, are part and parcel of preparing the nation to take the next step. As such, I am proud to witness the efforts of the KRU Group in not only having the vision to strengthen their presence internationally through Kartun Studios, but also in developing, training and nurturing the next generation of highly skilled workers through KRU Academy” states Y. B. Dato’ Sri Ahmad Shabery Cheek.

According to Norman Abdul Halim, Executive President and Group CEO of The KRU Group, the establishment of Kartun Studios is not merely to position the brand and highlight its slate of animation content, but also forms part of a cohesive corporate strategy to attract local and foreign investment in the next Three (3) to Five (5) years.

“2D and 3D animation content provide an opportunity for local studios to become major players in the global arena. Take for example, “Ribbit”, KRU’s first animation feature film, – it has been sold to more than 80 countries and will be having its World Premiere screening at The Niagara Integrated Film Festival in Canada on June 21, 2014. Kartun Studios will be producing Three (3) animation films, 130 3D animation series and 130 2D animation series within the next Five (5) years” says Norman.

Kartun Studios will create an estimated 1,000 new job opportunities with the production of its 2D and 3D animation slate. Currently, KRU Academy is home to 200 students taking their Diploma Kemahiran Malaysia (Malaysia Skills Diploma), certified by the Ministry of Education Malaysia and the Department of Skills Development Malaysia. Its intake is expected to increase to 300 students within the next one year. Notwithstanding this, KRU Academy is committed to increasing the awareness of the Creative Industry and will continue delivering a combination of informative demos, talks and hands-on workshop sessions in high schools through its program “Kreatif X Press”.