KUCHING: The Ministry of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts has reaffirmed its strong support for the Asean International Film Festival & Awards (AIFFA), describing it as one of the ministry’s key signature events over the past 12 years.
Its Deputy Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan said the ministry’s continued commitment reflects AIFFA’s role in strengthening Sarawak’s position as a regional creative hub.
“This year marks 12 years, how time flies, and AIFFA is Sarawak’s signature event, one of the signature events in our ministry.
“That is why our ministry really supports this event, especially in the last 12 years, and years to come, of course, we are very proud of this Asian International Film Festival. It is one of the ways that will bring all the great producers, great actors, actresses, filmmakers to be in one place in Kuching. This is the place to be in the future,” he said.
He said this in his speech during the opening night of AIFFA 2025 Under the Stars at Grand Margherita Hotel here on Thursday (Nov 13).
He said AIFFA was the brainchild of the Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg during his tenure as Tourism Minister, and has since grown into a platform that elevates Sarawak’s creative and cultural profile.
AIFFA Festival director Livan Tajang said this year saw unprecedented participation from filmmakers across the region.
“This year we received a record-breaking number of submissions – more than 200.
“The shortlisted films have proven that dedication, passion and a keen eye for quality and engaging stories. Asean certainly is a melting pot of cultures, stories and creativity. We look forward to submissions by our newest member, Timor Leste, at the next AIFFA,” she said.
The 2025 festival has drawn delegates from across Asean, including Cambodia, Brunei, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam and Timor Leste.
The event kicked off a series of screenings, networking sessions and industry programmes aimed at strengthening regional collaboration and nurturing emerging talent.
The festival will honour outstanding achievements in nine major categories – Best Screenplay, Best Film Editing, Best Cinematography, Best Supporting Actress, Best Supporting Actor, Best Actress, Best Actor, Best Director and Best Film.
The winners will be announced at the AIFFA Gala Night on Nov 15, at Pullman Hotel here.
