Asean Film Festival Gives Better Understanding of Cultures

KUCHING (Sarawak) Apri1 1 (Bernama) -- The Asean International Film Festival and Awards 2013 in giving a new dimension to the region's film industry has provided better understanding of the cultures of Asean countries to film producers and fans alike. Well-known Malaysian film producer, director and writer, U-Wei Haji Saari, who was head of the five-member jury at the festival, said the objective of instilling Asean spirit through the festival could be deemed a success. "The AIFFA was to celebrate stories from Asean nations and we honoured them with awards but more importantly, we were able to learn more about other countries. We, the jury ourselves have learned a lot from the films entered for the competition," he told a press conference after the three-day festival came to a close on Sunday night. "Interestingly, there were films from various genres, making it tough for us to judge and select for the awards. Hence, it was challenging." The other members of the jury panel were Deborah Gabinetti from Indonesia, Jack Neo (Singapore), Ricky Davao (Philippines) and U Aung Lwin (Myanmar). Malaysian actor Shaheizy Sam, who won the Best Actor Award for his role in the film "Songlap", said he did not expect to win it. "To me, the term 'best' is very difficult to define and is subjective as everyone has his or her own yardstick. However, I am delighted, touched and feel very honoured by the recognition given for my work by members of the jury," he said. -- BERNAMA