The Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFEST) has set a new regional milestone after earning an official listing in ASEAN Records.
The festival was recognised as the very first independent international cinema event across the region to run both an annual awards presentation and a permanent year‑round curatorial programme side‑by‑side.
The honour was formally handed over during the recent opening of the ninth Malaysia Golden Global Awards held at MyTown Shopping Centre.
Unique framework model
The dual model is built around the festival and its special strand Asean On Screen, which exists to lift up productions from Southeast Asia and share stories shaped by the region’s many backgrounds, experiences and ways of life.
MIFFEST founder Joanne Goh emphasised that the milestone belongs to far more than just the organising team.
“On behalf of the Malaysia International Film Festival, I am truly humbled to accept this recognition,” she stated, as quoted by the New Straits Times.
“It belongs not only to MIFFest, but to every filmmaker, partner, and supporter who believes in the power of cinema to bring people together.”
Origins, core vision and long-term objectives
Looking back at how the project began, Goh recalled the simple vision that guided it.
“When we introduced Asean On Screen, our vision was simple – to create a lasting platform where Southeast Asian stories could be celebrated, discovered, and shared with the world,” she noted.
What started as part of Malaysia’s 2025 Association of Southeast Asian Nations Chairmanship has evolved into an annual fixture that connects creators and works from every corner of the sub‑region, turning the country into a space for meaningful conversation and creative collaboration.
Outlining the long-term goal, Goh said MIFFest believes cinema can transcend borders, with Asean On Screen aiming to strengthen the visibility of Southeast Asian cinema, connect diverse voices with wider international audiences and inspire future generations of storytellers.
“This recognition is not the destination, but an encouragement for us to continue,” she remarked.
Programme highlights
This year’s slate features films from six Southeast Asian nations, while the awards will honour outstanding work across categories including best film, best director, performance awards, screenwriting, cinematography, best new director, audience choice, and lifetime achievement.
MIFFest 2026 runs from July 18 to 25, gathering filmmakers, industry professionals, and film enthusiasts for eight days of compelling storytelling.
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