SHAH ALAM, Feb 15 — The creative economy has the potential to drive Selangor youth economy through the Merge Is Bolder 2026 programme, which is aligned with several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), said Shah Alam MP Azli Yusof.
He said the combination of artificial intelligence (AI) and creativity can more quickly impact the community, in line with current developments in digital technology.
“As policymakers, the monitoring of technology use is very important to ensure implementation is in line with the law, and so it doesn’t breach the humanitarian values and ethics.
“The merging of AI and creativity could influence the community, but its use must be ethical so it is not excessive,” he added.
Azli was speaking on behalf of state executive councillor for youth, sports and entrepreneurship Mohd Najwan Halimi during the Merge Is Bolder event at the MBSA Convention Centre here yesterday.
He said the creative industry has contributed about RM2 million to the state economy and propelled the Selangor government to strengthen youth resilience and marketability in producing competitive products.
He added that Merge Is Bolder meets aspirations under SDG4 (Quality Education), SDG8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), and SDG17 (Partnerships for the Goals) in supporting the development of skilled youth in Selangor.
Meanwhile, Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) Art and Design Faculty dean Assoc Prof Azhar Abd Jamil said the field of graphic design has remained relevant despite facing technological developments including AI.
He added that Merge Is Bolder is in line with UiTM’s vision to connect industry and community, and boost the institution’s visibility.
“The field of graphic design will remain relevant even as technologies like AI emerge. (Merge Is Bolder) can strengthen industry networks and support Selangor’s creative economy.
“Cooperation between higher learning institutions, industry and community can produce youth talent that is ready to fulfil market needs,” Azhar said.
Merge Is Bolder is a final-year exhibition project for UiTM graphic design students, and was organised by the UiTM Puncak Alam Digital Graphics and Media Department.
The programme involves 133 students and represents a platform for them to exhibit their artworks and prepare to face the realities of the industry and new economic landscape.
