FFI 2026 Launches with Theme “Askala Karya Sinema Indonesia”

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - The 2026 Indonesian Film Festival (FFI) was officially launched at Hutan Kota by Plataran in Jakarta on Thursday. This year’s festival carries the theme “Askala Karya Sinema Indonesia,” marking the beginning of a series of programs aimed at strengthening the national film ecosystem.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon said the theme reflects the role of cinema as a keeper of collective memory and national identity. According to him, film serves not only as a form of entertainment but also as a medium for documenting social experiences and passing on human values across generations.

“This theme invites us to understand that Indonesian cinematic works are a light that continues to preserve and keep alive the collective memory of the nation,” Fadli said during the launch of FFI 2026. He added that films celebrate cultural diversity while preserving stories and experiences for future generations.

Ahmad Mahendra, Director General of Cultural Development, Utilization, and Preservation, said a strong film ecosystem is essential to advancing Indonesian culture. Therefore, efforts to strengthen human resources, appreciation platforms, distribution networks, and public access to Indonesian films remain a priority.

“If film is the face of Indonesian culture to the world, then the film ecosystem is the foundation that ensures that face continues to be presented with the highest quality,” Mahendra said. He emphasized that strengthening the film sector is an important part of the national cultural development agenda.

Chairman of the Indonesian Film Board (BPI), Fauzan Zidni, described FFI as a platform for appreciating and celebrating the achievements of Indonesian filmmakers. He noted that the festival also plays an important role in building a healthy and sustainable film industry.

“FFI is our shared platform to encourage and celebrate the quality of Indonesian films,” Fauzan said. He added that BPI remains fully committed to supporting the festival as a reflection of the industry's current progress and future direction.

During the event, the FFI 2026 Committee officially introduced actresses and actors Nirina Zubir and Morgan Oey as the festival’s ambassadors. Their role is expected to strengthen communication between the committee, film industry stakeholders, and Indonesian film audiences.

FFI 2026 Committee Chairman Ario Bayu expressed optimism about the continued growth of Indonesia’s film industry. He said the increasing number of local film productions and rising audience enthusiasm reflect growing public confidence in stories created by Indonesian filmmakers.