The International Advertising Association (IAA) Malaysia and IACT College have jointly announced a landmark scholarship program aimed at reshaping Malaysia’s future talent landscape in the creative, digital, marketing, and communications sectors.
The initiative will award MYR10,000 each to up to 150 students entering IACT’s 2026 diploma intake, representing a potential total investment of MYR1.5 million dedicated to empowering the next generation of Malaysian talent.
As a strategic partnership of advertisers, agencies, media, brands, consultancies, technology players, educators, event specialists and related services, IAA Malaysia is dedicated to championing the common interests of the marketing and communications ecosystem.
Through thought leadership, professional development, education and advocacy, the Chapter bridges the gap between local talent and global standards. IAA Malaysia remains committed to nurturing the next generation of leaders while fostering a climate that encourages creativity, innovation and responsible marketing.
The scholarships support students pursuing Diploma in Digital Media and Communication, Diploma in Broadcasting and Film, Diploma in Digital Advertising and Diploma in Digital Design programs that sit at the intersection of creativity and technology.
The IACT College diploma courses have been globally accredited by the International Advertising Association for over 15 years, reflecting IACT’s longstanding commitment to industry-aligned education. This scholarship initiative further strengthens the deep partnership between IAA and IACT College, reinforcing their shared mission to invest in future leaders who will shape and elevate the industry.
The scholarship was unveiled during IAA Malaysia’s first ever Recode Off Central Festival dedicated to the development of young professionals in Malaysia. The launch of this scholarship also marks a significant milestone leading up to the establishment of the IAA Student Chapter Malaysia, which will serve as a platform to build meaningful industry and academia collaboration and nurture a vibrant community of emerging professionals.
According to Timothy Chan, CEO of IACT, this initiative represents a meaningful step forward for the development of future creative leaders. “This scholarship is a transformative investment in the future of our industry,” he said.
“At IACT, we are deeply committed to nurturing talent who are not only technically capable but also creatively courageous. The industries of tomorrow need individuals who can combine creativity with purpose. People who can innovate, communicate, and shape culture. Our partnership with IAA Malaysia reinforces the belief that education must remain a foundation pillar of industry excellence, and that deserving young Malaysians must have access to opportunities that can truly change the course of their lives.”
This shared commitment is echoed by John D Chacko, President of IAA Malaysia and Global Vice President for IAA Global Education & Professional Development, who underscored the larger mission behind the collaboration. “IAA Malaysia is not just an association. It is a not-for-profit movement committed to recoding for the betterment of creativity, technology, and people,” he said.
“This scholarship initiative reflects our belief that talent is the most powerful catalyst for industry renewal. As we prepare to launch the IAA Student Chapter Malaysia, we are doubling down on our commitment to nurture future leaders, young Malaysians who can thrive at the intersection of innovation and creativity. Together with IACT, we are shaping a new generation of future leaders, innovators, and creative thinkers who will elevate Malaysia on the global stage.”
Applications for the scholarships will open 1st January, 2026, with full details to be released through IACT’s official channels.
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