Messages from Governor

Assalamu’alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

May prosperity be with all of us.

The film industry faces a future filled with challenges and opportunities, yet it has a promising future. Indonesia’s film industry plays a key role in the growth of the country’s creative economy, having seen significant advancements in recent years.

With the rapid development of digital technology and shifting global audience preferences, the industry faces the ongoing challenge of adapting—particularly in the face of over-the-top (OTT) services, which increasingly dominate entertainment consumption. OTT platforms accelerate the spread of local and international films, but they also heighten the need for domestic content to be competitive, original, and high-quality. For this reason, the film industry must be able to adapt to these changes.

The 19th Jogja-NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF) 2024 proves our commitment to nurturing Indonesian cinema that contributes to the evolution of Asian cinema. As one of the largest film festivals in Asia, JAFF has become a platform for professional filmmakers to innovate and share ideas on emerging social issues.

JAFF, as the largest film festival in Indonesia, must be able to answer the challenges by stimulating the film ecosystem for the Indonesian film industry.  Through the 19th JAFF, I hope to inspire the emergence of new professional filmmakers who will strengthen Indonesia’s film industry with fresh, promising talent.

Hopefully, JAFF will continue to play a role in developing the creative industry, especially in Yogyakarta. With the theme of Metanoia, the 19th JAFF invites us all to support the ongoing transformation of Asian cinema towards glory.

Wassalamu’ alaikum Warahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.

Yogyakarta, October 31, 2024

Governor of the Special Region of Yogyakarta

Hamengku Buwono X