The 19th Jogja-Netpac Asian Film Festival (JAFF) kicked off over the weekend at Empire XXI Jogja, drawing thousands of attendees despite persistent rain.

The event, which stands as Indonesia‘s longest-running international film festival, gathered notable Indonesian film figures including directors Yandy Laurens, Sidharta Tata, Tumpal Tampubolon, and Timo Tjahjanto, alongside actors Dian Sastrowardoyo, Sheila Dara, Hannah Al Rashid, and Eva Celia.

Operating under the theme “Metanoia,” this year’s edition focuses on Asian cinema’s transformation amid global challenges. JAFF founder, filmmaker Garin Nugroho, addressed the crowd, emphasizing the importance of community support. “Trust, togetherness and collaboration are the key elements to building a thriving film ecosystem, whether in Indonesia, Asia and even the world,” he said.

Indonesia’s Minister of Culture, Dr. Fadli Zon, highlighted Indonesian filmmakers’ global achievements and pledged support for the industry’s growth, particularly in international distribution. The minister called for collaborative efforts to strengthen the film ecosystem’s role in cultural representation and societal change. “We will also pursue to support the distribution of these works to global markets,” he said. “I invite everyone to work together to strengthen the film ecosystem as a medium for conveying universal messages, introducing Indonesian culture, and serving as a source of inspiration for future generations and an agent of change.”

Local band Lomba Sihir performed during the opening ceremony. The festival presented honorary awards to producer Hendrick Gozali, Netpac founder, the late Aruna Vasudev, and Busan International Film Festival founder Kim Dong-ho.

Nugroho’s silent, black-and-white film “Samsara,” which claimed four awards at Film FestivaI Indonesia 2024, served as the opening feature.

The 19th JAFF, which runs through Dec. 7, will present 182 films from 25 Asia-Pacific countries. The inaugural JAFF Market begins Dec. 3.