Beyond borders, beyond films: ASEAN FILM FESTIVAL ignites cultural engagement, fosters economic synergy
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In a celebration that united the diverse cultures of Southeast Asia, the ASEAN FILM FESTIVAL (AFF) made its memorable debut.
With the unwavering support of the Consulate General Offices of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), various partners, chambers and associations in Hong Kong, this remarkable event has ended on a high note.
From the captivating opening on August 4 to the exhilarating finale screening on August 19, AFF took centre stage at the prestigious M+ Cinema, Miller Theater at the Asia Society and the sky cinema at Olympian City.
Showcasing a carefully curated collection of films crafted by Southeast Asia’s most eminent filmmakers, this festival aims to bridge cultural gaps and ignite a sense of mutual understanding and appreciation among diverse audiences.
Harnessing the transformative power of cinema, the Hong Kong-ASEAN Foundation (HKAF), the event’s organiser, aims to foster cultural engagement, strengthen economic ties and promote tourism and collaboration between Hong Kong and the ASEAN region by staging the AFF in Hong Kong.
As the curtains fell on the AFF 2023, the Finale took place at the Hong Kong Palace Museum, located in the lively West Kowloon Cultural District – Hong Kong’s most iconic arts and cultural hub. The event showcased the remarkable Indonesian film ‘Before, Now and Then’ written and directed by Kamila Andini. This 2022 Indonesian period drama transported the audience on a fascinating journey through time.
“The Indonesian film industry has a long history of using film as a medium to raise important social issues and connect with audiences, “said Muhammad Neil El Himam, Deputy for Digital Economy and Creative Products at Indonesia’s Ministry of Tourism and Creative Economy, at the AFF Finale 2023.
“Hong Kong, as an international hub in Asia, is an ideal location for connecting cross-regional cultures and driving better understanding among neighbouring countries…