By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Nov 15: The ASEAN International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA) has grown into a symbol of regional unity, says Premier of Sarawak Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg.
He said the festival, now in its seventh edition since 2013, has evolved far beyond a showcase of films, becoming a platform that connects ASEAN nations through shared stories and artistic expression.
“Over the years, AIFFA has grown into more than just a film festival.
“It is a symbol of ASEAN unity, a celebration of imagination and a tribute to an industry that entertains millions and fuels economies worth trillions, powered by passionate, visionary talents like you (filmmakers),” he said in a video speech played during AIFFA 2025 Gala Night held at Pullman Hotel here last night.
Abang Johari further reminisced about the early days of AIFFA when it was first proposed in 2013, during his tenure as Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture.
“The idea was born from a journey we took to India in 2012 — to learn from Bollywood and the Ramoji Film City. We returned inspired, determined to create a festival that celebrates ASEAN storytellers.
“The proposal was later endorsed by the ASEAN Tourism Ministers Meeting, and since then, Kuching has proudly hosted AIFFA six times,” he added.
Abang Johari told the audience that thousands of filmmakers have walked Kuching’s streets and experienced Sarawak’s culture over the years, reinforcing the State’s aspiration to be a creative hub within the region.
He also revealed that this year’s festival marked a historic milestone, with AIFFA receiving 200 film submissions, the highest since the event began in 2013.
In addition, he praised new AIFFA award categories that recognise ASEAN university students producing short films on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and Borneo documentary filmmakers highlighting stories of the land and its communities.
Abang Johari further acknowledged the presence of two major international figures at the event — Hong Kong actor Simon Yam and Filipino director Lav Diaz, saying their attendance reaffirmed that cinema “knows no borders”.
Also present were Malaysian Minister of Women, Family and Community Development Dato Sri Nancy Shukri; Sarawak Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah; Deputy Minister for Tourism, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew; Deputy Minister for Creative Industry and Performing Arts, Datuk Snowdan Lawan; Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Sarawak (MTCP) permanent secretary Datu Sherrina Hussaini; National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (Finas) chairman Dato’ Gerald Hans Isaac and AIFFA 2025 festival director Livan Tajang.
— DayakDaily
