RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia’s Ministry of Culture is exploring a collaboration with Mizan Production to develop a biographical film about Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari. The initiative is part of efforts to strengthen cultural diplomacy and commemorate the 400th anniversary of the prominent Islamic scholar and national hero this year.

The collaboration was discussed during a meeting between Indonesian Culture Minister Fadli Zon and Mizan Group President Director Haidar Bagir in Jakarta, Monday April 6, 2026. The discussion focused on the potential development of a historical and spiritual film based on the life of Sheikh Yusuf.

Fadli Zon, said the 400th anniversary of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari holds strategic significance not only for Indonesia but also for global history. He added that Indonesia has proposed the commemoration of the anniversary to UNESCO.

The minister emphasized the importance of co-production in developing the film project. “What matters most is the strength of the script and its development, because a solid narrative foundation will determine the quality of the final production,” Fadli Zon said.

He also noted that the Ministry of Culture, through its Directorate of Film, Music, and Arts, has supported Indonesian filmmakers in participating in international film festivals. These include events in Rotterdam, Udine, Sundance, Clermont-Ferrand, and Cannes.

“Ministry of culture has also launched the Dana Indonesia Raya fund which can be used as a matching fund. We have opened opportunities for development fees and post-production support, as well as a historical screenplay competition and plans to support five historical films,” he explained.

Haidar Bagir, said Mizan’s interest in adapting the story of Sheikh Yusuf Al-Makassari into a film has existed for a long time. He described the figure as a complex character—a scholar, Sufi thinker, anti-colonial fighter, and influential historical figure.

“Mizan has experience producing national films, including Laskar Pelangi, but historical or biographical films present unique challenges, especially in terms of financing and market dynamics,” he said.