A new development and investment JV is being backed by the Malaysian government and Asian media company Astro Overseas. Kuala Lumpur-based Ideate Media will focus on live-action and animated content development and IP exploitation.

Financial backing will be provided for feature films and TV series. Seasoned Astro veteran Zainir Aminullah is helming the new venture as CEO. He says Ideate will connect the development and commercial processes through strategic partnerships with production houses and distributors.

Initial productions for Ideate will center on mid-budget, English-language feature films and television series with global distribution potential and that are Asian-themed or that use Asia as a backdrop. The new content development and investment venture currently has plans to participate in up to 12 global projects over the next three years, with the first being announced shortly.

Interested filmmakers can submit their proposals directly to Aminullah (zainir@ideatemedia.com.my).

Recent Malaysian government initiatives, such as the new production incentive rebate, have been established in effort to make the territory an alluring destination for international producers.