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