SHAH ALAM, Feb 15 — The state government, through the Merge Is Bolder 2026 programme, has provided a space for young creative talent to showcase their potential and increase their marketability in the creative economy industry, said programme deputy director Al Aufa Khairunnisa Mohd Kahar.
She said the initiative involves 133 students from Universiti Teknologi MARA’s (UiTM) Digital Graphics and Media Department and their projects produced in line with current industry needs.
“We are very thankful for the support of youth exco (state executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship) Mohd Najwan Halimi under the Selangor Creative Economy Plan, which allows students to showcase their preparedness to face real industry challenges.
“Thank God, half of these students have gained industry placements, highlighting their talent and potential,” she said when met during Merge Is Bolder 2026, held at the MBSA Convention Centre in Shah Alam yesterday.
Al Aufa Khairunnisa said the programme isn’t just an artwork exhibit, but a platform that directly exposes students to industry needs and the production of competitive creative works.
Meanwhile, Les’ Copaque product development executive Mohd Hazwan Othman highlighted the significance of individual creativity and the ability to adapt to current technologies.
“Talent plays an important role in the design of a product to attract customers. Students must maximise their own talent and not necessarily depend on artificial intelligence (AI).
“Each individual has their own creativity and it is important to showcase what sets you apart while continuing to adapt to current technologies. This is how they can be prepared to face ever-changing industry and creative economy challenges,” he said.
Yesterday, in his speech, UiTM Faculty of Art and Design dean Assoc Prof Azhar Abd Jamil said the field of graphic design has stayed relevant despite the emergence of new technologies including AI.
He added that the Merge Is Bolder programme is aligned with UiTM’s mission as a facilitator of industry-community networks, and lifts the institution’s visibility to greater heights.
