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By Ashley Sim
KUCHING, Aug 3: The ASEAN International Film Festival & Awards (AIFFA) sets the stage for an immersive experience that celebrates not only outstanding cinema but also the rich tapestry of culture in the ASEAN region, especially in conjunction with Sarawak’s 60th anniversary celebration.
According to an AIFFA press handout, AIFFA 2023, now in its sixth year, promises to be an unforgettable cinematic extravaganza honouring the finest filmmakers and films from the ASEAN region.
From 120 entries, the AIFFA 2023 jury panel has carefully selected a list of 34 outstanding films that represent the very best of the region’s cinematic achievements.
Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts (MTCP) Sarawak Minister Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, who was present to officiate at ‘AIFFA 2023 Opening Night’ last night at the Old Courthouse Courtyard here, stated in his speech that AIFFA has over 100 student delegates registered, including some from ASEAN universities.
“AIFFA will enable them to receive first-hand knowledge as they attend talks by the professionals and experts of the industry.
“Looking at the bigger picture, we can see that AIFFA is the platform for the ASEAN film industry to close ranks and work closely to further the industry on the international scene,” he said.
“AIFFA provides a meeting place for joint ventures that can enhance understanding within our regions.
“Not only for feature films but also ASEAN documentary films, that can be shared so viewers will know more about their neighbour countries.
“Together, we have almost 700 million people living in this region, a huge market for the industry for films unique to ASEAN.”
According to the press handout, AIFFA 2023 will host three days of free screenings of the shortlisted films at the iconic Old Courthouse and will also include an array of other exciting events, including panel discussions organised for the 300 delegates and members of the public interested in the film business.
“AIFFA Biztalk and a two-day acting masterclass offers networking opportunities, providing a platform to exchange ideas, forge collaborations, and explore new possibilities within the industry.
“Exhibitions and film talks covering topics that range from content streaming, scriptwriting, film financing to women in the creative industry are also set to happen in the three days,” the press handout stated.
The festival’s climax will be the anticipated ‘AIFFA 2023 Award Ceremony’ that will take place on the final day of the festival on August 4 at Pullman Hotel.
Along with recognising outstanding achievements in various categories, the ceremony will also crown the winners of the prestigious ‘Best Film’ award, ‘ASEAN Inspiration’ Award, and ‘Lifetime Achievement’ Award, AIFFA said.
Amongst others present at the opening night were Abdul Karim’s wife, Datin Zuraini Abdul Jabbar; MTCP deputy ministers Datuk Snowdan Lawan and Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; MTCP permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini; and AIFFA 2023 festival director Livan Tajang. — DayakDaily
