Panel Discussion: U.K.- Malaysia Collaboration in the Creative Industries

The creative industries are increasingly recognised as a powerful driver of economic growth, innovation, cultural exchange and international partnership. As the U.K. and Malaysia continue to strengthen ties across education, business and the creative sector, new opportunities are emerging for collaboration in film, television, digital media, arts, culture and creative enterprise.

This panel discussion brings together leading voices from industry, academia, cultural organisations and the creative economy to explore how the U.K. and Malaysia can work together to support talent development, foster innovation, encourage knowledge exchange and create sustainable opportunities for creative professionals and organisations.

The discussion will examine current challenges and future opportunities for collaboration, including the role of universities, cultural institutions, creative entrepreneurs and industry leaders in building stronger international partnerships.

Whether you are a student, educator, creative practitioner, entrepreneur, policymaker or industry professional, this event offers an opportunity to gain insights into the evolving creative landscape and discover new possibilities for U.K.–Malaysia engagement.

Panel Chair - Chacko Vadaketh
Actor, Emcee, Voice Artist and Former FINAS Board Member

One of Malaysia's most recognisable media personalities, Chacko Vadaketh brings extensive experience across broadcasting, performance and public engagement. He will chair the discussion and guide conversations on the future of creative collaboration between the U.K., Malaysia and ASEAN.

Panellists

Florence Lambert
Head of Arts and Creative Industries, British Council Malaysia

Florence leads initiatives that connect artists, creative professionals and cultural organisations across the U.K. and Southeast Asia. Her work focuses on international collaboration, cultural exchange and creative sector development.

Faiz Helimi
Elite Fellow, University of Malaya | Television Industry Practitioner

With experience spanning academia and the television industry, Faiz brings insights into media innovation, talent development and the evolving creative landscape across Malaysia and the region.

Dame Shalini Ganendra DSG
Cultural Entrepreneur, Policy Advisor and Scholar

An internationally respected advocate for arts and culture, Dame Shalini has worked extensively across cultural diplomacy, creative entrepreneurship and public policy, championing the role of creativity in sustainable development.

Dr Hiu Man Chan

Chair of Culture, British Malaysian Society | Senior Lecturer in Creative Industries, De Montfort University

Dr Chan specialises in creative enterprise, international collaboration and cultural innovation. Her work focuses on building bridges between education, industry and the creative economy across the U.K. and Asia.

Sandeep Joseph
CEO and Co-Founder, Ampersand Advisory

A strategic advisor and business leader, Sandeep works at the intersection of innovation, investment and industry development. He brings a valuable perspective on how creative and cultural sectors can generate economic growth and international partnerships.