KUALA LUMPUR: Institut Keusahawanan Negara Bhd (INSKEN) is shifting its focus towards higher-value sectors, including the blue and orange economies, with artificial intelligence (AI) adoption forming a key pillar of its next growth phase.
“We want to explore how we can support entrepreneurs in the blue economy and the orange economy. At the same time, we aim to focus on how AI can assist small businesses,” chief executive officer Viviantie Sarjuni told StarBiz.
“Our goal is to democratise technology so entrepreneurs of all sizes can leverage AI as a practical and accessible tool,” she added.
The move aligns with national priorities. Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) has identified creative industries as a key growth driver under the 13th Malaysia Plan, with digital games and animation officially recognised as part of the Orange Economy. The government projects the sector will contribute RM32bil to gross domestic product by 2030.
Viviantie said INSKEN is developing an industry “rubric” to identify sectors with strong demand and scalable opportunities.
She noted that while animation production carries high upfront costs, revenue potential can reach millions per project.
INSKEN has also facilitated industry exposure, including bringing a Canada-based animation software company, Toon Boom, to Sabah to train rural youth, who are now contributing to international projects.
In 2025, INSKEN trained 20,916 entrepreneurs, generating RM22.4mil in sales revenue and creating 710 new jobs.
The agency plans to expand AI-driven programmes in 2026, including Bangkit and INSKEN Masterclass, while focusing on uplifting micro-entrepreneurs into sustainable small businesses.
INSKEN also highlighted ongoing challenges faced by entrepreneurs, particularly in financial literacy and pricing strategies.
Meanwhile, INSKEN’s coaching division director Dr Maizura Mohamad, noted that many small business owners struggle with profit margin calculations and basic accounting concepts.
INSKEN operates under the Ministry of Entrepreneur Development and Cooperatives (KUSKOP), providing training and coaching programmes for micro and informal entrepreneurs nationwide.
