Gamesindustry.biz is reporting that PlayStation is planning to open new development studio in Malaysia next year, marking the company’s first studio in the South East Asia region. The new studio will be tasked with producing art and animation for exclusive PlayStation games, in partnership with Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios. SIE Worldwide Studios is comprised of major development companies including Guerrilla Games, Insomniac, Naughty Dog, Sucker Punch, Japan Studio, and others. This news follows the recent appointment of the new head of Worldwide Studios Hermen Hulst.
The announcement was made by YB Tuan Gobind Singh Deo, the Minister of Communications and Multimedia Malaysia. “With this [studio] establishment, Malaysia will be working closely with Sony Interactive Entertainment Worldwide Studios to create more opportunities for the local and regional games industry. […] Together, we will work to uplift creative talents in Malaysia and even establish a partnership with out local educational partners. This is to ensure that accelerated growth of the industry in our country will be supported,” YB Gobind Singh Deo said.
Minister of International Trade and Industry Malaysia YB Datuk Darrel Leiking said that the establishment of PlayStation’s new studio is a part of the country’s ongoing efforts to appeal to “high quality investment from international companies.”
“Malaysia has all the right criteria to become the favored investment location for international game developers. Our thriving games ecosystem and world-class talent have attracted over 60 game development studios from all over the world and we look forward to more in the future,” YB Datuk Darrel Leiking said.
CEO and President of PlayStation Jim Ryan said that “impressive talent, a vibrant game ecosystem, and support from the government are key reasons why we have decided to take our partnership with Malaysia to the new level.” According to Gamesindustry.biz’s report, Malaysia has been successfully ramping up its Digital Creative Content industry, generating 149 project and the equivalent of $1.84 billion USD in revenue.