Ministry of Culture Launches 2026 Film Programme to Chronicle Indonesia's Independence Struggle

The Ministry of Culture, through its Directorate General of Development, Utilisation, and Coaching, has launched a film production programme titled ‘Narasi Kepahlawanan Indonesia 2026’ to encourage the creation of cinematic works depicting the struggle to defend Indonesia’s independence. The programme carries the theme ‘Menyulam Ingatan, Merawat Kebangsaan: Menghidupkan Peristiwa Sejarah 1945–1950 dalam Sinema Kontemporer’ (Weaving Memory, Nurturing the Nation: Reviving Historical Events of 1945–1950 in Contemporary Cinema). It stems from the need to re-present narratives of Indonesian heroism through a medium that resonates with the public, particularly the younger generation. Through film, history is expected not only to be understood as a series of past events but also as a space for reflection that brings to life the values of heroism, humanity, unity, and nationhood in a modern context. The programme is open in two categories: feature-length films and short films lasting 15–30 minutes. Both categories are aimed at Indonesian filmmakers who possess original ideas based on research into the nation’s heroic narratives. The feature film category allows for broad exploration of various figures, events, and social dynamics during the revolutionary period. Meanwhile, the short film category focuses on specific historical events designated as starting points for story development, including the Rengasdengklok Incident, the Proclamation of Independence, the Battle of Surabaya on 10 November, the Dutch Military Aggressions, General Soedirman’s guerrilla warfare, the Emergency Government of the Republic of Indonesia (PDRI), and the diplomatic and economic struggles of the early republic. Beyond funding support, the programme provides comprehensive mentorship, ranging from script refinement and consultations with historians and cultural experts to production guidance by film professionals. This approach is intended to produce works of artistic quality and historical accuracy.