RRI.CO.ID, Rotterdam - Indonesia is strengthening its presence on the global cinema stage through active participation in the 55th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) 2026, held in Rotterdam, the Netherlands, from late January 2026. The initiative reflects the Indonesian government’s continuous commitment to promoting its national film industry internationally.

The Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture supported the participation of Indonesian filmmakers at the festival, which is widely regarded as a major global platform for independent and innovative cinema. At the 55th edition of IFFR, Indonesia is represented by two short films, five feature-length films, and one Indonesian project selected for a pitching program.

IFFR is known for showcasing diverse cinematic voices from around the world, featuring both short and feature films that explore bold narratives and new perspectives. Indonesia’s participation highlights the growing diversity, quality, and competitiveness of its filmmakers within the international film community.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon said Indonesia’s presence at IFFR reflects the rising global recognition of Indonesian cinema. “We encourage more Indonesian filmmakers to appear on the world stage, and we hope IFFR can provide space for an ‘Indonesia Focus’ or ‘Indonesia Spotlight’ to further strengthen cross-cultural understanding through cinema,” he said Friday, 31 January 2026.

In addition, he also underlined the potential for expanded film co-production between Indonesia and the Netherlands. He noted that cooperation could be facilitated through programs under the Ministry of Culture, including the National Talent Management platform, which supports Indonesian creative talents through capacity building, networking, and access to international opportunities.

Indonesia has also welcomed creative collaboration through initiatives such as the SAMASAMA Lab, involving the Netherlands Film Fund, National Talent Management, and the Indonesian Film Producers Association. Additional partnerships have been developed with major regional festivals, including Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival and Jakarta Film Week, to strengthen cross-border film cooperation.

During the festival, Minister Fadli Zon met with IFFR Director Vanja Kaludjerčić to discuss long-term collaboration. In the meeting, Indonesia reiterated its interest in presenting an Indonesian Spotlight at future editions of IFFR, while emphasizing the alignment between Indonesian contemporary cinema and IFFR’s curatorial vision, which values cultural diversity and socially relevant storytelling.

Indonesia and the Netherlands are also exploring cooperation in the development of historical films following the signing of an Audiovisual Co-production Agreement on December 4, 2024. The collaboration is expected to serve as a form of cultural diplomacy, strengthening bilateral relations while positioning Indonesian cinema as both a cultural voice and a growing force in the global creative economy.