“We are encouraging more Indonesian filmmakers to gain exposure on the global stage,” Minister of Culture Fadli Zon said in a statement on Sunday (February 1).
He said the government remains committed to supporting Indonesian filmmakers so they can become more active, competitive, and capable of competing internationally.
Through Indonesia’s participation in the 55th edition of IFFR, Fadli said Indonesian films are expected to serve as a form of cultural diplomacy, conveying narratives rooted in the nation’s cultural values and traditions.
“In the future, we hope IFFR can provide space for an Indonesia Focus or Indonesia Spotlight as a strategic platform to deepen cross-cultural understanding and strengthen Indonesian-Dutch cultural relations through cinema,” he said.
Fadli also highlighted opportunities to expand film co-production cooperation between Indonesia and the Netherlands.
Such collaboration, he said, can be facilitated through Ministry of Culture programs, including the National Talent Management initiative, which provides capacity-building support, networking opportunities, and access to international platforms for Indonesian cultural talents.
Earlier, the Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia and the Ministry of Education, Culture, and Science of the Kingdom of the Netherlands signed an audiovisual co-production agreement on December 4, 2024.
Both governments also plan to expand cooperation in the development of historical films to further strengthen bilateral relations, Fadli said.
He added that creative collaboration among filmmakers, researchers, archivists, and cultural institutions from both countries in producing historical films could help enhance public understanding and reinforce ties between Indonesia and the Netherlands.
Several Indonesian films have been selected for screening at the festival, including The Hole, 309 Days to the Bloodiest Tragedy, Rangga & Cinta, and Siapa Dia.
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Translator: Sinta Ambarwati, Resinta Sulistiyandari
Editor: Primayanti
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