Southeast Asia’s cinematic landscape is experiencing a thrilling transformation! A wave of Indonesian-Malaysian film co-productions is crashing onto the scene, with a quartet of exciting projects unveiled at the JAFF Market. This surge in collaboration highlights a growing trend of shared storytelling and creative synergy between these two vibrant nations.
These collaborative efforts were showcased during a session titled “The Nusantara Wave: The Rise of Indonesia-Malaysia Collaborations” at the Plaza Center Stage, part of the Jogja-Netpac Asia Film Festival. The projects include:
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“Munafik”: An Indonesian adaptation of Malaysia’s blockbuster horror franchise. The film, directed by Guntur Soeharjanto and starring Arya Saloka and Acha Septriasa, has wrapped principal photography and is now in post-production. A first-look teaser was screened at the event. This project brings together Unlimited Productions (Indonesia), Skop Productions, Komet Productions (Malaysia), and A&Z Films and Legacy Pictures (Indonesia).
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“Khurafat”: An Indonesian version of the Malaysian horror-religious film. Zahir Omar is set to direct this remake of the original film by Syamsul Yusof, which broke box office records in Malaysia. Skop Productions is currently finalizing the Indonesian co-producers.
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“Khadam”: A horror-drama currently in post-production, featuring Indonesian actor Aghniny Haque and Malaysian star Remy Ishak. Directed by Shamyl Othman, the film is produced by Komet Productions and Red Communications (Malaysia), Sil-Metropole (China), and Applause Entertainment (India). Magma Entertainment (Indonesia) has joined as an executive producer.
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“Badut Gendong”: A co-production between Magma Entertainment, Legacy Pictures, Virtuelines Entertainment, VMS Studio, Caravan Studios (Indonesia), Komet Productions, Skop Productions, Astro Shaw (Malaysia), and Applause Entertainment (India). Directed by Charles Gozali, the film stars Marthino Lio, Dayinta Melira, Clara Bernadeth, and Derby Romero.
“Our increasing collaboration with Indonesia’s leading producers and creatives reflects our commitment to working with the very best talent in the region,” stated Shamin Yusof, CEO of Skop Productions. He emphasized the bold statement made by entrusting their biggest franchises, “Munafik” and “Khurafat,” to top-tier Indonesian filmmakers.
But here’s where it gets interesting… The collaboration isn’t just about sharing stories; it’s about blending creative visions. Ahmad Izham Omar, chief explorer of Komet Productions, noted the potential for “new levels of synergy and quality” by combining talents from both countries. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about the films themselves; it’s about building a stronger, more diverse film industry in Southeast Asia.
Linda Gozali, CEO of Magma Entertainment, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the “magic” that happens when different cultures and skillsets converge. Dato’ Azmir Mutalib, CEO of Malaysia’s National Film Development Corporation (FINAS), also expressed support, recognizing the positive impact of these co-production efforts.
A thought-provoking question: Could this collaboration be a blueprint for other Southeast Asian countries to follow, fostering a more interconnected and globally recognized film industry? What are your thoughts on this exciting development? Share your opinions in the comments below! The session was also attended by actor Izabel Jahja and Charles Gozali, director of the “Qodrat” franchise.