Daily Times

The Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, in collaboration with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Committee in Islamabad (ACI) has hosted a ASEAN Movie Night event featuring the award-winning Indonesian film “Ngeri-Ngeri Sedap”, directed by the Indonesian Producer Bene Dion Rajagukguk. The event was a delightful fusion of cinema and cuisine, celebrating the rich cultural ties and immense similarities between Indonesia and Pakistan.

On this occasion, the Indonesia Chargé d’ Affaires (CDA) Rahmat Hindiarta in his welcoming remarks apprised the distinguished guests from the diplomatic and Pakistani community that the ASEAN Movie Night reflects the spirit of continuously bolstering friendship among ASEAN family members. “Moreover, I also wish to transfer the spirit of friendship among us to our brothers and sisters in Pakistan and beyond,” he said.

The Indonesian CDA also called Pakistani filmmakers to ‘Look East’ to further explore the potential of the creative economy in Indonesia and ASEAN region.

Elaborating the huge economic potential of the Indonesian creative industry he said, “The film industry is currently the fastest-growing sub-sector of Indonesia’s creative economy. The number of moviegoers in the country was more than 55 million in 2023. In 2023, the local film industry in Indonesia set a new record with 20 movies, attracting over 1 million viewers each. In recent years, the film and entertainment industry in ASEAN countries, have experienced robust growth.”

The event commenced by screening the video on ASEAN Summit 2023 held in the enchanting paradise of Labuan Bajo as one of Indonesian ten new Balis followed by the screening of an Indonesian movie that provided a cinematic treat showcasing Indonesia’s perfect blend of humour, mutual respect, ideal parenting, local wisdom and morality, cultural richness, and beauty of the natural landscape.