"I believe Indonesia holds enormous potential in the film industry, but the limited number of cinema screens remains a major obstacle. We need 10 thousand, while currently, only about 2,500 are operating," he stated.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Balinale Film Festival in Denpasar, Bali, on Saturday (June 7), Zon called on investors and filmmakers to recognize and help address this gap, including through collaboration with regional governments.
Highlighting the strong link between cinema and culture, the minister emphasized that films extend beyond acting and serve as a dynamic platform to showcase diverse cultural elements.
"In addition to acting, films can incorporate literature, dance, music, and cuisine. This is why films are a vital tool for promoting culture," he explained.
He then reiterated that the limited number of cinemas remains a significant barrier to harnessing the full potential of Indonesia’s thriving film industry.
Recognizing film as a form of soft power, Zon urged Indonesia to follow the example of countries like South Korea, the United States, and India -- nations that have effectively used cinema to expand their cultural influence on the global stage.
He expressed optimism that Indonesia could follow a similar path, especially as domestic films made up 67 percent of total screen time nationwide in 2024.
In addition, Zon noted that the Ministry of Culture is also focusing on improving the quality of screenwriting among local filmmakers.
"We are also paying attention to screenwriting. A good story can still fall flat if the screenplay is poor. Therefore, it is crucial to enhance this aspect through workshops and capacity-building programs," he concluded.
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Translator: Ni Putu M, Tegar Nurfitra
Editor: Primayanti
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