RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia's Ministry of Culture is promoting historical films as a tool for cultural diplomacy and public education to introduce the nation's historical trajectory to global audiences. The commitment was reaffirmed by Minister of Culture Fadli Zon during the launch of the 2026 Indonesian Heroic Narrative Film Production Program at Senayan Golf Club in South Jakarta on Thursday, 9 July 2026.

According to Fadli, Indonesia has a wealth of historical stories about its struggle for independence that deserve to be brought to the big screen, following the example of many countries that consistently produce historical films. He believes cinema can serve as a bridge to introduce the values of heroism, democracy, and national identity to both younger generations and international audiences.

"If we look at Hollywood, historical filmmaking has never stopped. World War II films continue to be produced and remain an important way of preserving historical memory," Fadli said.

He explained that Indonesia's history, particularly the period from 1945 to 1950, offers rich narratives of armed resistance, diplomacy, economic resilience, journalism, and cultural movements during the country's fight to defend its independence. However, many of these stories have yet to be adapted into films that can reach wider audiences.

Fadli noted that major historical events including the Proclamation of Independence, the Rengasdengklok Incident, the Battle of Surabaya, the Dutch Military Aggressions, the Emergency Government of the Republic of Indonesia (PDRI), and the Round Table Conference provide significant potential for research-based cinematic productions. Through film, he said, audiences can better understand Indonesia's nation-building process while strengthening the nation's collective memory.

To support this initiative, the Ministry of Culture has launched an open film competition involving production companies, film communities, screenwriters, directors, and producers from across Indonesia. Participants will also receive guidance from historians, archivists, academics, and film professionals to ensure historical accuracy while preserving creative freedom.

The program features three categories: feature films, short films, and documentaries focusing on Indonesia's struggle for independence during the 1945–1950 period. In addition to production funding, selected participants will receive script development assistance, historical consultation, and professional production mentoring.

Fadli expressed hope that the initiative will strengthen Indonesia's film ecosystem while encouraging the production of more historical films capable of reaching international audiences. He emphasized that such works should serve not only as entertainment but also as a powerful medium for introducing Indonesia's history, cultural heritage, and national identity to the world through cinema.