S'pore govt launches S$48 million 4-year programme to support digital content creation using tech & AI

The Infocomm Media Development Authority (IMDA) has launched a S$48 million programme to support media professionals in digital content creation.

The four-year Digital Content and Capability Development (DCCD) programme, announced by Senior Minister of State for Digital Development and Information Tan Kiat How, is designed to help Singapore's media entities compete in an increasingly digital-led media landscape, said the statutory board in a media release.

Short-form storytelling and AI tools

The DCCD programme is built upon two core pillars: digital content development and capability development.

Digital content development supports the creation and distribution of content reflecting how local audiences discover and connect with stories across digital platforms, said IMDA.

It will include the use of relevant formats and narratives to present stories that resonate with youth, adults and seniors.

Meanwhile, capability development supports digital storytelling using emerging formats, technologies and production approaches.

This includes AI-generated content and short-form episodic content across live action and animation.

AI will also be experimented with in workflows and content development, production and localisation to enable media professionals to focus their time on the creative aspects of content creation, said IMDA.

Changing media landscape

Singapore's audience is continually shifting towards digital platforms and formats while short-form videos, microdramas and I-assisted production workflows are gaining traction, said the statutory board.

"Singapore has no shortage of compelling stories to share with the world, and media professionals can use technology and AI to complement their storytelling craft and bring these stories to audiences in new and engaging ways."

The programme is open to all companies within the local media ecosystem, including traditional production houses, digital media companies and tech companies entering the media space.

To qualify for the programme, media companies will need to participate in a biannual accreditation exercise where they will be assessed on their current content development capabilities and track record.

If accredited, they will then be eligible to participate in Calls for Proposals (CFPs).