RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Every year on July 30, the world celebrates the International Day of Friendship. According to the United Nations (UN), the observance grew out of UNESCO's idea of a Culture of Peace, which encourages resolving conflicts through dialogue, mutual respect, and cooperation.

This idea later inspired the UN General Assembly to proclaim the International Day of Friendship in 2011 as a reminder of the importance of building peace through friendship.

The values of friendship are reflected not only in everyday life but also in films. Indonesian cinema has produced many stories that celebrate loyalty, trust, and growing together through life's challenges. If you're looking to explore Indonesian culture through the lens of friendship, here are five films worth watching.

1. Laskar Pelangi (2008)

Adapted from Andrea Hirata's best-selling novel, Laskar Pelangi follows the journey of 10 children from underprivileged families in Belitung as they pursue their dreams despite economic, social, and educational challenges. Throughout their journey, friendship becomes a source of strength and hope.

2. 5 cm (2012)

The film tells the story of five close friends who spend several months apart before reuniting for a hike to Mount Semeru, East Java. The journey tests their friendship while reminding them of the importance of supporting one another in pursuing their dreams, ambitions, and love.

3. Negeri 5 Menara (2012)

Based on Ahmad Fuadi's best-selling novel of the same name, Negeri 5 Menara follows six teenagers from different parts of Indonesia as they study at Pondok Madani Islamic boarding school in Ponorogo, East Java. Despite their different backgrounds, they form a strong friendship while working toward their shared dreams.

4. Bebas (2019)

Bebas or Glorious Days tells the story of six teenage friends from Jakarta whose lives take different paths before they reunite 23 years later. As they reconnect, they revisit memories from their youth, resolve past regrets, and discover that true friendship can endure the test of time. Set in the mid-1990s, the film also captures an era of significant change in Indonesia, offering a nostalgic look back for audiences across generations.

5. The Fabulous Udin (2016)

The Fabulous Udin follows Udin, a brilliant young boy from Sukabumi, West Java, who often solves problems in unexpected ways. Alongside the adventures he shares with his four close friends, the film highlights the values of friendship, family, and supporting one another.

Whether you're looking for an inspiring coming-of-age story or a nostalgic reunion with old friends, these films offer different perspectives on the meaning of friendship. This International Friendship Day, they also provide a glimpse into Indonesian culture through stories that remind us of the value of trust, kindness, and standing by one another.