Indonesia Unveils New Cultural Blueprint With Focus on Film Industry Growth (EXCLUSIVE)

As I, a movie connoisseur, pen these words, I find myself reflecting upon Indonesia‘s vibrant cultural landscape, particularly its burgeoning film industry. This reflection is prompted by the visionary roadmap set forth by none other than Fadli Zon, the pioneering Minister of Culture in this beautiful archipelago nation. His plan, ambitious and far-reaching, aims to catalyze Indonesia’s cultural growth, placing special emphasis on nurturing the rapid expansion of its cinematic artistry.

For the very first time, Indonesia will be introducing a fresh Ministry dedicated to Culture. This marks the start of a new era for cultural advancement under President Prabowo Subianto’s leadership, as shared with EbMaster during an exclusive conversation held at the Hong Kong FilMart market,” Zon explains in an interview.

The freshly created ministry operates under Indonesia’s 80-year-old constitutional requirement, as highlighted by Zon. This mandate directs the state to foster Indonesian national culture globally while allowing society the liberty to conserve and enhance its cultural heritage.

The strategy of the ministry is built upon three main aspects: preservation and rejuvenation of cultural history, using culture for diplomatic purposes, and fostering economic development in the cultural sector through digital advancements, particularly focusing on boosting the film industry. This sector, as Zon points out, has seen extraordinary growth, with over 200 films produced last year and cinema attendances surpassing 80 million.

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The ministry’s strategy is based on three primary elements: preserving and revitalizing cultural heritage, leveraging culture for diplomatic purposes, and promoting economic development in the cultural sector by embracing digital technology, with a special emphasis on stimulating growth within the film industry. This industry, according to Zon, has witnessed remarkable expansion, producing over 200 films last year and attracting more than 80 million cinema-goers.

In addressing the hurdles within Indonesia’s movie industry, Zon pinpoints a significant obstacle as the scarcity of talented scriptwriters. To remedy this situation, the ministry is taking action through various capacity-building measures such as masterclasses, training workshops, student contests, and collaborative efforts with industry professionals.

Zon states that our goal is to safeguard Indonesia’s captivating storytelling heritage while aiming to make Indonesia a strong contender in the international market for cultural creativity.

To provide some perspective, Indonesian films are increasingly being chosen and awarded at prominent global film festivals. The domestic market in Indonesia, home to the world’s fourth-largest population of 283 million people, is swiftly growing, with locally produced films making up a substantial portion of box office earnings. Additionally, Indonesia is strengthening its cultural policies by providing an annual $13 million grant for international film co-productions.

The administration aims to hasten financial aid through a specialized endowment fund offering match funding options, aimed at bolstering the economic prospects of the movie industry. Regarding future international production incentives, Zon mentioned that while detailed tax reductions are under construction, the primary goal at present is to simplify processes.

He emphasizes that we aim to simplify and quicken both the process and the steps involved. This is crucial for us as it fosters mutual understanding with other nations. Moreover, he mentions that collaborative global projects will serve to showcase Indonesian culture, tourism, breathtaking landscapes, and our cherished values.

Zon underscores the crucial role that events such as the Hong Kong FilMart play in maintaining Indonesia’s expanding international influence within the film and television industry.

Zon emphasizes that networking is vital for Indonesian filmmakers, given the era of globalization. This means working together becomes essential. He points out networks like AFAN (Asian Film Commissions Network) as key forums for discussions and sharing of top-tier industry strategies.

The ministry is also breathing new life into cultural centers scattered throughout Indonesian provinces, transforming them into vibrant hubs for the movie industry, along with various other cultural endeavors.

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2025-03-21 15:46