The government hopes that the country’s economy would be driven by the creative industry, says Khairy Jamaluddin.

The Youth and Sports Minister said the creative industry could add value to the country’s economic development through several aspects such as innovation and creativity.

“The basis of arts is innovation which is closely linked to economic development. Not only in terms of purchase but how we can incorporate art as a way of developing creativity among young people,” said Khairy during a press conference held at the 2015 Symposium at the National Arts Centre South City, today.

He added, among the industries which could boost national economy are the animation and industrial design.

Khairy at the same time hope that the two day symposium would attract foreign art lovers to local art which could contribute to the country’s development.

“It is hoped that the symposium this time would attract foreign investors and auditors to view or art which has its own class and could be used as collateral.

“This is another way to view and appreciate art. It would also drive the country’s economy,” said Khairy.

In 2014 the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of Malaysia’s creative industry was less that two percent compared to Korea and Thailand of 10 percent, Indonesia (7 percent) and Singapore (5 percent).