Minister says regional film festivals can boost local economies

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Creative Economy Minister Teuku Riefky Harsya stated that film festivals held in regions can drive economic value for local communities while strengthening Indonesia's film ecosystem.

Harsya, in a statement received here on Wednesday, said that film festivals can serve as talent incubation platforms and drivers of the creative economy by enriching films that explore cultural themes and Indonesia's diverse folklore.

This potential is reflected in the organization of the Horror Film Festival (FFH) by Ruang Film Pacitan in collaboration with the Pacitan District Government.

"Indonesia has immense diversity and uniqueness in its culture and horror stories, which are like a new gold mine. The Ministry of Creative Economy is ready to collaborate on FFH with ministerial partners to further establish a benchmark, where this year's FFH event can move to the next level," the minister stated.

The festival has a strong characteristic as it is held in the coastal area of Pancer Door Beach as well as several strategic locations in Pacitan. This concept sets FFH apart and strengthens its identity compared to other film festivals in Indonesia.

The inaugural FFH in 2025 successfully attracted 285 film entries across three categories: general, student, and exhibition.

This year, FFH 2026 carried the theme, "INDIGO: Seeing the unseen. Reading the forgotten. Building the future". The series of activities will take place from June to September 2026, while the awards night is scheduled for September 9-12, 2026.

Pacitan District Head Indrata Nur Bayuaji said that FFH has generated positive impacts for the region, both economically and in the development of other creative activities.

"We hope that FFH 2026 can collaborate with the Ministry of Creative Economy and grow into a provincial, national, and even global festival," he remarked.

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Translator: Fitra, Kenzu

Editor: Primayanti

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