Hasbro Entertainment aims to expand global animation output with Malaysia pact

Hasbro Entertainment, the studio arm of toy giant Hasbro, is looking to grow its global animation footprint through a new partnership with Malaysia’s National Film Development Corporation (FINAS).

Kim Boyd

Under the multi-year agreement, Hasbro Entertainment will produce some of its forthcoming animated kids’ series in partnership with Malaysian studios Lil Critter Workshop, which specialises in 2D animation, and Omens Studios, which is known for its CG animation.

FINAS is a government agency supporting the local creative sector and helping to promote the country as a leading production destination.

Hasbro said the pact supports its long-term strategy of growing its international animation business, with the company now developing several new animated series based on its portfolio of brands for digital, SVoD and broadcast.

The Rhode Island-based company added that the partnership will support hundreds of jobs within the Malaysian animation sector, with Lil Critter Workshop and Omens Studios also partnering with other local companies to deliver the projects.

“Expanding our kids’ series animation production footprint is central to Hasbro’s long-term strategy to deliver world-class storytelling across platforms,” said Kim Boyd, Hasbro’s president of licensing and entertainment.

“Malaysia’s supportive production environment and highly skilled creative community make it an ideal partner for this next chapter of our global animation strategy.”