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Anime's Commercial Boom Captivates Southeast Asia's Youth

1/11/2026

50 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Anime has evolved from a niche interest to a significant commercial force in Southeast Asia, per industry insiders.
Sana Kok, a 28-year-old Malaysian, recalls his childhood fascination with anime.
Enrico Antonio, 29, from the Philippines, notes the genre's rise in the 2010s, driven by streaming platforms.
Having lived in Japan, Antonio says teenage fandoms foster lifelong loyalty and notes his $200 Gundam model purchase.

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Story summary

Anime has evolved from a niche interest to a significant commercial force in Southeast Asia, per industry insiders.
Sana Kok, a 28-year-old Malaysian, recalls his childhood fascination with anime.
Enrico Antonio, 29, from the Philippines, notes the genre's rise in the 2010s, driven by streaming platforms.
Having lived in Japan, Antonio says teenage fandoms foster lifelong loyalty and notes his $200 Gundam model purchase.