Brunei, Singapore jointly produce interactive documentary

Authority for Info- communications Technology Industry (AITI) of Brunei Darussalam and Media Development Authority (MDA) of Singapore have joint hand to produce a river documentary. The documentary-- Gabung: Kisah Antara Dua Sungai, or Tales of Two Rivers, is the first collaboration work between independent production houses from both countries, and focuses on the transformation of two national rivers in Brunei and Singapore through the years of economic growth. This joint project or 'Gabung' in short, represents the consolidated efforts of two production houses in finding common grounds and working together to produce this documentary which was well applauded by the Minister of Communication of Brunei, Pehin Dato Haji Abdullah at the launch of the event on Thursday. This project is the beginning of more collaboration in the future between Brunei Darussalam and other countries to create new innovative and creative content under the initiative launched by AITI. Masscom TV Productions of Brunei Darussalam and Mediamorphosis Television and Video Productions from Singapore are being awarded with this project. Pehin Dato Haji Abdullah further pointed out that in a study conducted across 45 countries, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) stated that, in 2013, creative or copyright industries' contribution to national employment stands at an average of 5 percent. "In short, there is certainly an avenue for significant job creation in this sector and I am very encouraged to note this upcoming and emerging industry progressively developing in Brunei Darussalam," he stressed. He further added that AITI is currently finalizing its review on a new convergence regulatory framework. This new framework will allow broadcasting and multimedia sectors to be regulated and developed in an integrated or 'converged' manner. This regulatory initiative is in line with the Ministry of Communications' policy to create a broadcasting industry that is organized, well-regulated and vibrant with Brunei's own local identity while meeting the public taste.