Culture Minister invites Indonesian Embassy in Canada to promote culture through film

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon has invited the Indonesian Ambassador to Canada, Muhsin Syihab, to promote Indonesian culture, particularly through film. “One of the best forms of cultural diplomacy is through film. Canada hosts the Toronto Film Festival and the Montreal International Film Festival, which can be utilised as markets for our films. In addition to festivals in Canada, we also facilitate Indonesian filmmakers to compete in other international film festivals,” Fadli Zon said in Jakarta on Tuesday. Reflecting on the organisation of film festivals in Canada, the minister sees such events as capable of boosting the exposure of Indonesian films on the international stage. He also noted that the close relationship between Canada and Indonesia is built on aligned views in the cultural sector, fostering optimism for showcasing Indonesia’s image through cultural promotion in Canada. Fadli Zon also proposed a cultural award for diaspora communities or foreigners who contribute to the advancement of Indonesian culture. The award could encompass various categories, ranging from cultural preservation, historical research, and tradition to contemporary fields. To facilitate the award, the minister encouraged active participation from the Indonesian Embassy in Ottawa in nominating individuals or groups. Muhsin Syihab stated that Indonesia and Canada have the potential to forge bilateral cooperation in the cultural sector. “We can collaborate to promote Indonesia through a cultural lens, whether through festivals or official activities of the Indonesian Embassy in Ottawa,” said Muhsin Syihab.