KUCHING: Sarawak is set to host Borneo’s first international animation and games festival next month, strengthening its ambition to become a regional hub for digital creative industries while attracting global investors, creators and technology leaders.
The Borneo Animation & Games Festival (BAGFEST) 2026 will take place in Kuching from August 19 to 23 under the theme ‘Forging Sarawak’s Digital Future as the Regional Hub for Animation & Games’, focusing on talent development, intellectual property creation and digital economy growth.
Digital Minister, Gobind Singh Deo, said BAGFEST 2026 reflects the close partnership between the federal and Sarawak governments in advancing Malaysia’s digital creative industry.
“Our greatest investment is in our people. By connecting Malaysian talent with international industry leaders, investors and global markets, we are creating opportunities for our creators to develop world-class intellectual property, build globally competitive businesses and showcase Malaysian creativity on the international stage,” he said in a press statement on Wednesday (July 15).
Gobind said the festival is more than a showcase, describing it as a strategic platform to position Sarawak as a regional powerhouse for animation and games while strengthening Malaysia’s standing in the global digital creative economy.
“The five-day event is expected to attract more than 1,500 industry delegates from over 20 countries, facilitate over 200 business-to-business meetings, feature more than 50 exhibitors and welcome over 20,000 visitors through conferences, exhibitions and community programmes,” he added.
Organisers project BAGFEST 2026 will generate RM100 million in export opportunities and RM50 million in investment prospects while bringing together global studios, publishers, investors, technology companies and educational institutions to explore new partnerships and emerging industry trends.
The programme will include animation, comics and gaming exhibitions, esports activities, cosplay competitions, a Beyblade tournament, career fairs, portfolio review sessions, and Wayang Pacak, Sarawak’s first zero-emission outdoor animation screening experience powered by green energy solutions.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg is scheduled to officiate the festival on August 21, with BAGFEST expected to become Borneo’s flagship animation and games event, driving innovation, international collaboration, and economic growth.
