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By Karen Bong
KUCHING, Aug 5: South Korean multi-talented star Rain was honoured with the esteemed Asean Inspiration Award during the Asean International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA) 2023 yesterday.
AIFFA, recognised as the foremost celebration of Asean cinema, had concluded with an exceptional display of finesse and ingenuity.
It brought together eminent filmmakers, actors, industry experts, and cinephiles from around the globe, converging to commend and revel in the diverse narratives crafted by Asean filmmakers.
The star-studded gala showcased an impressive array of films that encapsulated the spirit of the Asean region, casting a luminous spotlight on its cultural legacy and modern-day chronicles.
It was honoured by the presence of Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Deputy Minister of Tourism Dato Sebastian Ting, and Deputy Minister of Creative Industry and Performing Arts Datuk Snowdan Lawan.
AIFFA 2023 proudly disclosed the long-awaited list of nominees and winners across several prestigious categories, saluting the exceptional contributions of filmmakers across Asean.
The laureates of AIFFA 2023 encompass:
- Lifetime Achievement Award – U-Wei Saari
- Asean Spirit Icon Award – Philip Cheah
- Best Film – Barbarian Invasion (Malaysia)
- Best Director – Carlo Obispo for ‘The Baseball Player’ (Philippines)
- Best Actor – Datuk Tamimi Siregar in “Perjalanan Pertama” (Malaysia and Indonesia)
- Best Supporting Actor – Hasnul Rahmat in “Jerangkung Dalam Almari” (Malaysia)
- Best Actress – Max Eigenmann in ‘Kargo’ (Philippines)
- Best Supporting Actress – Kim B Ngo in ‘The Brilliant Darkness’ (Vietnam)
- Special Jury Award – ‘Fathers’ (Cambodia) and ‘Before, Now and Then’ (Indonesia)
- Best Director of Cinematography – Roy Lolang for ‘The Woman Crowned with A Crescent Moon’ (Indonesia)
- Best Film Editing – ‘Faces of Anne’ (Thailand)
The attendees were treated to an unforgettable evening of entertainment and cross-cultural exchange.
Renowned artistes and performers from Malaysia and Indonesia, including Amir Jahari and The Shang Sisters graced the stage, delivering mesmerising performances that accentuated the region’s artistic and cultural diversity.
The evening’s entertainment lineup authentically mirrored the creative dynamism and unity of the Asean region.
AIFFA 2023 stands as a testament to the rise and significance of Asean cinema on the global stage. It serves as a stage for filmmakers to exhibit their craft, foster international cooperation, and celebrate the shared narratives that resonate beyond boundaries.
“We are thrilled to have witnessed such an extraordinary gathering of talents at AIFFA 2023 Gala Night,” said festival director Livan Tajang.
“The exceptional films and performances we’ve seen tonight demonstrate the immense potential of Asean cinema, and AIFFA remains committed to promoting and celebrating the region’s cinematic excellence.”
As the curtains drew to a close on another tiumphant sixth edition of AIFFA, the organisers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the filmmakers, sponsors, partners, and attendees who collectively transformed this event into a resounding success.
The ongoing success of the festival owes itself to the unwavering support of the Sarawak government, the global film community, and devoted film enthusiasts. — DayakDaily
