Malaysia to host Iranian Film Festival to boost cultural ties
The fourth Iranian Film Festival in Malaysia, slated to run February 6-8, aims to deepen cultural and artistic relations between Iran and Malaysia, according to Habib Reza Arzani, Cultural Attaché of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Malaysia.
Arzani announced the festival’s details at a press conference attended by Malaysian media outlets on January 27, Ana News Agency reported.
The festival, which will showcase Iranian cinema across Sabah, Johor, and two locations in Kuala Lumpur, has evolved into a vital platform for cultural dialogue, Arzani stated, highlighting cinema’s universal language in fostering mutual understanding.
He extended gratitude to key stakeholders, notably the Malaysian National Film Development Corporation (FINAS) and the GSC cinema chain, for their patronage.
A joint Iranian-Malaysian scientific-cinematic committee will be established during the festival to strengthen professional and academic collaborations in the film sector and facilitate future joint initiatives.
Arzani underscored Iran’s prominent position in international cinema, noting its focus on humanism, ethics, family values, and social justice.
He highlighted the work of acclaimed director Majid Majidi, whose films such as ‘Children of Heaven,’ ‘The Color of Paradise,’ ‘Rain’ and ‘The Song of Sparrows’ exemplify value-driven and humanistic cinema, conveying universal themes of kindness, hope, and respect for human dignity.
A specialized workshop led by Majidi will provide a valuable opportunity for Malaysian filmmakers, students, and enthusiasts to engage directly with his professional insights.
Arzani cited the global success of ‘Children of Heaven,’ the first Iranian film nominated for an Academy Award, as a testament to Iranian cinema’s potential and Majidi’s global standing, describing him as a cultural ambassador for human and spiritual values.
The festival will feature films including ‘Ahmad,’ directed by Amir Abbas Rabiei; ‘The Willow Tree,’ directed by Majid Majidi; ‘Dreamland’, directed by Mohsen Enayati; ‘Guardian of the Field,’ directed by Mohammad Reza Kherdmandan; ‘The West Sky,’ directed by Mohammad Asgari; and ‘Tear of the Reedbed,’ directed by Mehdi Jafari.
Arzani expressed hope that the festival will foster expanded collaboration between Iran and Malaysia in cinema, encompassing co-productions, artist exchanges, workshops, and cultural market development.