RI wins recognition at Rumanian festival

RI wins recognition at Rumanian festival

Once again, Indonesia proves there is a lot more to it than a
country of riot-torn provinces and bickering politicians, but
also one capable of producing high quality work at international
venues.

At the Fourth Eco-Etno-Folk Film Festival in Slatioara,
Rumania early this month, Indonesia, represented by Yayasan
Kelompok Kerja Visi Anak Bangsa (YKKVAB), won third prize for the
production of the documentary film Teman dari Rawa Biru (Friends
from Rawa Biru).

The short documentary, directed by Asep Kusnidar, tells about
the activities of children living around Lake Biru in Irian Jaya.
It highlights their games, culture, language and customs, as well
as their traditional ways of nature conservation.

The prize was presented to YKKVAB from Niste Tarani
foundation's president Dinu Sararu. Niste Tarani is a Rumanian
national foundation for rural civilization.

The Indonesian Ambassador in Bucharest, Toto Soegiharto, said
the prize was the highest honor Indonesia has ever achieved in a
Rumanian International Film Festival.

"We have also screened the film in an ASEAN Film night on
Sept. 12, and had positive response from the approximately 600
viewers," he said in a statement. ASEAN stands for the
Association of Southeast Asian Nations.

Some 88 films from 35 countries on five continents entered the
four-day festival, which began on Sept. 4. -- JP