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Original research
CREATIVE INDUSTRIES AS A FACTOR OF ECONOMIC STRUCTURAL TRANSFORMATION: THE CASE OF MALAYSIA (2015–2024)Pages 139-146
Abstract
This paper investigates whether the expansion of Malaysia's creative industries (2015-2024) constitutes structural transformation or merely incremental service-sector growth. Drawing on Cultural and Creative Satellite Account data, the study employs a multi-dimensional framework examining sectoral growth dynamics, relative productivity, intra-sectoral concentration (Herfindahl-Hirschman Index), and export intensity. The empirical results reveal sustained expansion, with value added per worker consistently exceeding national averages and demonstrating strong international integration. However, growth remains internally concentrated, with equipment-related segments (particularly broadcasting and audiovisual equipment manufacturing) accounting for a substantial share of total value added. While digital content subsectors (animation, gaming, software) are expanding and benefit from IP-oriented policies, the transition toward a predominantly IP-driven model remains incomplete. The findings suggest Malaysia's creative economy functions as a hybrid mechanism combining digital upgrading with technological deepening rather than replacing the industrial development paradigm. This carries implications for middle-income economies balancing manufacturing capabilities with creative economy aspirations.
Keywords: Creative industries; Structural transformation; Digital economy; Intellectual property; Malaysia; Economic upgrading.
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Larisa A. Aguzarova, 
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