KUALA LUMPUR, July 19 — The Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) has earned a place in the Asean Records, receiving the title of “First independently organised International Film Festival to feature a concurrent annual film awards ceremony and a standing Regional Cinema Curatorial Programme.”
The recognition was officially presented yesterday at MyTown shopping centre during the opening ceremony of the ninth MIFFest, acknowledging the festival’s efforts in building a regional cinema platform through Asean On Screen and its annual Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA).
Asean On Screen is a regional cinema programme under MIFFest that showcases films from South-east Asia, highlighting stories reflecting the region’s diverse cultures, identities and social experiences.
This year’s lineup features Bury Us in a Lone Desert (Vietnam), Dopamine (Indonesia), Phra Ruang: Rise of the Empire (Thailand), Republic of Pipolipinas (Philippines), Tears in Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia) and The Sandbox (Singapore).
Meanwhile, the MGGA celebrates filmmaking achievements across categories, including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography, Best Supporting Actor and Actress, Best New Director, Audience Choice Award and Lifetime Achievement Award.
MIFFest founder Joanne Goh said the recognition represented the collective efforts of the filmmaking community.
“On behalf of the Malaysia International Film Festival, I am truly humbled to accept this recognition.
“It belongs not only to MIFFest, but to every filmmaker, partner, and supporter who believes in the power of cinema to bring people together.
“When we introduced Asean On Screen, our vision was simple — to create a lasting platform where South-east Asian stories could be celebrated, discovered, and shared with the world.
“Since its launch in conjunction with Malaysia’s Asean Chairmanship in 2025, the programme has grown into an annual platform that brings together filmmakers and films from across the region, with Malaysia serving as a meeting point for dialogue, collaboration, and cultural exchange.
Goh added that MIFFest believes cinema can transcend borders, with Asean On Screen aims to strengthen the visibility of South-east Asian cinema, connecting diverse voices with wider international audiences and inspiring future generations of storytellers.
“This recognition is not the destination, but an encouragement for us to continue building meaningful bridges through film.
“Thank you for believing in the stories of South-east Asia,” she said.
