A+E, Ideate ‘kick-start’ Asian production

MIPCOM: A+E Networks Asia is teaming up with Malaysia’s Ideate Media to fund content development in Asia.

The initiative aims to stimulate original production in the region with financial support and expertise from the two companies. It will also allow prodcos to access regional government incentives and tax breaks for international projects.

Sean Cohan, executive VP of international at A+E Networks, said: “As A+E Networks Asia expands into broader, mass markets, the importance of regionally produced content is becoming more prevalent.

“This fund will mean more local stories that can complement a robust programme pipeline coming from our US channels: History, A&E and Lifetime.”

Zainir Aminullah, CEO of Ideate Media, said: “We see ourselves as a key player in the region as a magnet for content development and innovation, attracting the best ideas and talent. We’re already making encouraging progress in IP acquisition and development, both locally and internationally.”

Ideate Media is jointly owned by the strategic investment arm of the Malaysian government and Malaysian media group Astro Overseas.