KUCHING: The Japanese Film Festival (JFF), which makes its comeback this year, plays an important role in promoting culture and mutual understanding between Japan and Sarawak.
Datuk Snowdan Lawan, Assistant Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, said this when officiating at the opening ceremony of the festival at GSC Cityone Megamall here on Thursday (Jan 20).
He was representing minister Datuk Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah.
“JFF has been providing a platform and avenue for cultural exchange for people in the two countries since 1989.
“This year, the festival celebrates the 40th anniversary of the Look East Policy, which was initiated in 1982.”
Snowdan also expressed his appreciation to the Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur—an independent administrative agency under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan—headed by its director, Shimada Seiya.
Similarly, Snowdan also thanked Mitsubishi Corporation and Shiraishi Masashi, chief executive in Malaysia and general manager of Kuala Lumpur office, Mitsubishi Corporation.
“I wish to thank all of you for supporting and sponsoring this festival and bringing back great films and connecting people via three main pillars; Arts and Culture, Japanese Language Education and Japanese Studies.”
Meanwhile, moviegoers were treated to the screening of a film titled It’s a Summer Film, a movie about samurai and Japanese costumes.
The movie is about the importance of positive thinking and artistic expression.
