AirAsia Brand Co. Expands Its Intellectual Property Horizons Through Collaborations with Moonbug and MiraiLab
(IN SHORT) AirAsia brand co. (Abc.) has announced two significant partnerships with Moonbug Entertainment and MiraiLab to enhance its presence in character and entertainment intellectual property. This collaboration aims to promote AirAsia Buds, a collection of charming animal characters that embody values like teamwork and curiosity. Through its partnership with Moonbug, AirAsia Buds will feature in a 12-episode animated series set to launch on YouTube in early 2025. Additionally, MiraiLab will represent AirAsia Buds to create new opportunities in branding, entertainment, and merchandising. This initiative is part of Abc.’s broader strategy to diversify its intellectual property and engage audiences across various sectors. The announcement was made during the Kre8tif! 2024 event, highlighting Abc.’s commitment to fostering creativity and building meaningful connections within the region.
(PRESS RELEASE) Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 2024-Oct-4 — /Travel PR News/ — In a strategic move to enhance its presence in the realm of character and entertainment intellectual property, AirAsia brand co. (Abc.) has announced two significant partnerships with industry leaders Moonbug Entertainment and MiraiLab. This collaboration marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of AirAsia Buds, a vibrant intellectual property initiative aimed at broadening the AirAsia brand’s global reach through engaging lifestyle and entertainment content.
AirAsia Buds introduces an endearing cast of characters, including Tappy the adventurous tapir, Bam the culinary pygmy elephant, Ogu the fashionable orangutan, and Biggie the mischievous deal-seeker from another planet. These ASEAN-inspired figures embody the values of teamwork, curiosity, and love, poised to embark on captivating adventures that will resonate with audiences worldwide.
Through its partnership with Moonbug Entertainment—renowned for its popular children’s content including hits like Cocomelon and Blippi—AirAsia Buds will soon be featured in a 12-episode animated series slated to premiere on YouTube in the first half of 2025. This new series promises to engage young audiences with entertaining narratives that celebrate discovery and collaboration.
Simon Barnett, Director of Advertising Sales & Brand Partnerships at Moonbug, expressed excitement about the collaboration: “We are eager to bring AirAsia Buds to life, leveraging our creative talents. Families are increasingly enjoying content together on platforms like YouTube, and this project allows us to merge our passion for quality family entertainment with AirAsia’s image as a beloved travel companion.”
Izal Azlee, Head of IP Development at Abc., noted the synergy between the two organizations, stating, “Our discussions with Moonbug clarified their alignment with our vision for AirAsia Buds. Their expertise in child-friendly entertainment is exceptional, and we look forward to working together to reach a broader audience.”
In tandem with this initiative, Abc. has enlisted MiraiLab to champion the AirAsia Buds intellectual property, focusing on unlocking new ventures in branding, entertainment, and merchandising. This partnership is set to produce innovative projects that will showcase AirAsia Buds across various sectors, enhancing audience engagement both online and offline.
Remi Helmay, Head of Licensing and Merchandising at Abc., emphasized the importance of this venture: “For over two decades, AirAsia has been a proud advocate for ASEAN values. Our collaboration with MiraiLab will enable us to manifest the tales of AirAsia Buds through tangible experiences and exciting merchandise, resonating with our core values. This approach will foster deeper connections with our audience, allowing AirAsia Buds to inspire and engage across diverse markets.”
Ben Lee, Managing Director of MiraiLab, expressed enthusiasm for this partnership: “We are honored to collaborate with Abc. in bringing the AirAsia Buds to life. This initiative is a monumental step for both our brand and the ASEAN region, aiming to showcase our rich cultural diversity and creativity through this new intellectual property. With our expertise and innovative strategies, we are committed to making AirAsia Buds a memorable presence that captivates audiences globally.”
This announcement, made during the Kre8tif! 2024 event, underscores Abc.’s investment in developing intellectual property while diversifying into licensing, merchandising, and content creation. The goal is to elevate the AirAsia brand, expanding its influence across a broad spectrum of audiences and industries, leveraging the dynamic AirAsia Buds platform for growth in entertainment and lifestyle sectors.
Abc. remains dedicated to redefining brand development and enhancing audience engagement, driving creativity and fostering meaningful connections throughout the region and beyond for the AirAsia brand.
About AirAsia, the masterbrand
AirAsia is a leading Asean brand that has evolved from a pioneering low-cost airline into a dynamic travel and lifestyle platform for the underserved, the believers and the dreamers. With a legacy of more than 20 years built on affordability, accessibility, and inclusivity, AirAsia has connected over 800 million people across the region and beyond, inspiring dreams and empowering communities. Rooted in Asean, AirAsia continues to champion the region’s diversity propelled by its “Dare to Dream” spirit committed to delivering exceptional value, unforgettable experiences, and innovative solutions.
For the latest brand updates, collaborations, and exclusive content, follow @airasia on Instagram and be part of the journey as we continue to connect and inspire Asean!
About AirAsia Buds
AirAsia Buds is AirAsia’s character IP represented by humanoid characters mostly based on animals endemic to Southeast Asia: Tappy the thrill-seeking tapir, Bam the foodie pygmy elephant, Ogu the trendy orangutan, and deal-hunter Biggie from another planet. Together, they seek adventure and discover the joys of travel, curiosity and teamwork. If you are interested in licensing the AirAsia Buds IP, we invite you to explore how we can create something remarkable together by reaching out to us at licensing@airasiabrandco.com.
About Moonbug Entertainment
Moonbug is an award-winning global entertainment company inspiring kids everywhere to laugh, learn and grow. The company is behind some of the biggest kids’ entertainment brands in the world including CoComelon and Blippi. Moonbug believes every child should have access to entertaining and enriching content, making its shows available on more than 150 video platforms globally including Netflix, Disney+, BBC iPlayer and YouTube Kids. The company is also a global leader in pre-school music and audio experiences, available on 100+ audio platforms globally. Moonbug brands extend far beyond the screen to include streaming music, consumer products and live events.
Moonbug is part of Candle Media, an independent, creator-friendly home for cutting-edge, high-quality, category-defining brands and franchises. By bringing together elite talent operating at the intersection of content, community, and commerce, it helps to position leading entertainment businesses for accelerated, sustainable growth in the current market and beyond. Candle is run by its Co-Chairmen and Co-CEOs, leading entertainment executives Kevin Mayer and Tom Staggs, and backed by investment capital from funds managed by Blackstone’s flagship private equity business.
For more information on Moonbug, please visit www.moonbug.com.
About MiraiLab
MiraiLab, founded on the Japanese concept of “future + creativity,” is committed to driving diversified growth through IP licensing, film and television production, and global retail distribution. The company’s founder, with over 20 years of extensive experience across publishing, anime creation, creative design, and retail, has continuously led the industry, fostering a deep integration of culture and commerce. To date, MiraiLab has established close partnerships with over 400 premium IPs from Japan, Hong Kong, Taiwan, and Malaysia, encompassing a wide range of classic and emerging original works, consistently delivering innovation and vitality to various markets. Looking ahead, MiraiLab will remain true to its core values of “future and creativity,” striving to create more globally-focused IP projects, expand the boundaries of IP commercialization, and bring consumers unprecedented entertainment experiences.
Media Contact:
Daphne Cheah
communications@airasia.com
Source: AirAsia
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