8th Malaysia International Film Festival
Festival poster | |
Opening film |
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Closing film |
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Location | Kuala Lumpur |
Founded | 2017 |
Awards | Malaysia Golden Global Awards |
Hosted by | Jazzy Group (M) Sdn Bhd |
No. of films | 62 films (in competition) |
Festival date |
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Website | MIFFest 2025 |
The 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) will take place from July 19–27, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The festival will open with a Malaysian film exploring cultural identity and emotional heritage titled Ninavau by Bebbra Mailin and close with 2024 coming-of-age film Transamazonia by Pia Marais.[1][2] This year Bront Palarae, will be joined by Siti Saleha and Daiyan Trisha as the brand ambassadors of the festival.[3]
Jury and Selection Committee
Semi-final and Final Selection Jury
The Semi-Final and Final Selection Jury comprises esteemed industry professionals who play a critical role in evaluating the shortlisted films and determining the final nominees and award recipients. Their expertise and diverse perspectives ensure a fair and insightful judging process, upholding the artistic integrity and vision of MIFFest.
Preliminary Selection Committee
- Ansell Tan
- Chrishandra Sebastiampillai
- Indrani Kopal
- Jasmine Suraya
- Jordan Chiam
- Kaze Ng
- Kik Fei Jiun
- Rabbani Sujak
- Rosdeen Suboh
- TK Cheng
- Victor Chen
- Vimala Perumal
- Zahir Omar
Semi-Final Jury
Jury Name(s) | Semi-Final Committee |
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Al Jafree Md Yusop | |
Chacko Vadaketh | |
Leslie Ewe | |
Rendra Zawawi | |
Sangeeta Krishnasamy | |
Saville Chan | |
Vanidah Imran | |
Yasmin Yaacob |
Final Selection Jury
Jury Name(s) | Jury Member | Jury President |
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Asif Kapadia | ||
Rima Das | ||
Reza Rahadian | ||
Jennifer Yu | ||
Diana Danielle |
Official Selection
Out of a total of 62 films participating in the Official Selection, the lineup spans 49 countries and 43 languages, featuring 3 world premieres, 4 Asian premieres, 6 Southeast Asian premieres, and 38 local premieres.[4][5]
Opening Film
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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Ninavau | Bebbra Mailin | Malaysia |
Closing Film
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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Transamazonia | Pia Marais | France, Germany Switzerland Taiwan Brazil |
Competition
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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All That's Left of You | Cherien Dabis | Cyprus/Germany | |
DJ Ahmet | Georgi Unkovski | North Macedonia, Czechia, Serbia, Croatia | |
My Friend An Delie | 我的朋友安德烈 | Zijian Dong | China |
Paternal Leave | Alissa Jung | Germany, Italy | |
Red Path | Lotfi Achour | Tunisia | |
Soft Leaves | Miwako Van Weyenberg | Belgium | |
To a Land Unknown | Mahdi Fleifel | United Kingdom, Greece, Saudi Arabia, Qatar | |
Universal Language | Matthew Rankin | Canada | |
Winter in Sokcho | Hiver à Sokcho | Koya Kamura | France, South Korea |
A-Listers
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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La Grande Maison Paris | グランメゾンパリ | Ayuko Tsukahara | Japan |
What Does That Nature Say to You | 그 자연이 네게 뭐라고 하니 | Hong Sangsoo | South Korea |
Malaysian Dispatch
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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Housekeeping | Zahir Omar | Malaysia | |
Memori | Abid Hussain | Malaysia |
Neon
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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As The River Goes By | 水东游 | Charles Hu | China |
Family Secrets | Lee Sang-hoon | South Korea | |
Renoir | Runowâru | Chie Hayakawa | Japan, France, Singapore, Philippines, Indonesia, Qatar |
Manifesto
Introducing Manifesto—a powerful new documentary programme premiering at the 8th MIFFest 2025. Manifesto brings to the forefront untold stories that demand remembrance and lessons that resonate across generations. More than a collection of documentaries, it is a compelling call to reflect, engage, and honour the voices that continue to shape our world. Step into a space where truth, perspective, and purpose converge—experience the impact of Manifesto.
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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From Island to Island | 由島至島 | Lau Kek Huat | Taiwan |
The Tides Will Decide | Azim Rizal | Malaysia |
Actor in Focus: Reza Rahadian
With his exceptional talent and magnetic screen presence, Reza Rahadian stands as a pillar of Indonesian cinema. Renowned for his versatility in films such as Innocent Vengeance, Test Pack: You Are My Baby, My Stupid Boss, and Habibie & Ainun, he continues to captivate audiences across a wide range of genres. Spanning over two decades, his illustrious career has earned him four prestigious Citra Awards and seen him evolve as a model, singer, and director. Beyond the screen, Reza’s sincerity and personal journey of faith have only deepened his connection with the public. A true trailblazer, he remains at the forefront of shaping Indonesia’s cinematic future.
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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Habibie & Ainun | Faozan Rizal | Indonesia | |
My Stupid Boss | Upi Avianto | Indonesia |
Master At Work: Raj Kapoor
To commemorate the 100th birth anniversary of Raj Kapoor, MIFFest—together with the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur—proudly honors one of the most iconic figures in Indian cinema. Celebrated as The Showman of Indian Cinema, Raj Kapoor was a trailblazing actor, director, and producer whose timeless classics—Awaara, Shree 420, Sangam, and Mera Naam Joker—wove together poignant storytelling, evocative music, and deep social themes. His cinematic legacy crossed borders and generations, resonating with audiences across India, Russia, the Middle East, and far beyond.
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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Awaara | Raj Kapoor | India | |
Bobby | Raj Kapoor | India |
Master At Work: Ti Lung
A towering figure in Hong Kong cinema, Ti Lung is celebrated for his refined martial arts mastery and emotionally resonant performances. Rising to fame in the 1970s with Shaw Brothers’ wuxia epics, he later redefined his legacy through John Woo’s A Better Tomorrow, blending stoic strength with heartfelt depth to become a lasting icon of Asian cinema.
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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A Better Tomorrow | 英雄本色 | John Woo | Hong Kong |
Lenses of India Women Filmmakers
As the influence of women in cinema continues to grow, MIFFest—together with the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur—proudly presents Lenses of Indian Women Filmmakers, a special programme spotlighting the dynamic voices of Indian female directors. This curated showcase celebrates the bold storytelling, visionary perspectives, and artistic resilience of women who are reshaping the cinematic narrative. From intimate explorations to groundbreaking themes, these films highlight the depth and diversity of women behind the lens. Join us in honouring their contributions and experiencing the stories that challenge, inspire, and transform the world of cinema.
English title | Original title | Director(s) |
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Boong | Lakshmipriya Devi | |
Second Chance | Subhadra Mahajan | |
Victoria | Sivaranjini | |
Village Rockstars 2 | Rima Das |
Open Air Cinema
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production country |
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Desolasi | Syafiq Yusof | Malaysia | |
Emerging Composers Initiative 2025 Shorts Showcase | Leong Xing Tong, Caitin Leticia, Khira Ammar, Kishan Kumar | Malaysia | |
Fly By Night | Zahir Omar | Malaysia | |
Hantu Kak Limah | Mamat Khalid | Malaysia | |
Munafik 2 | Syamsul Yusof | Malaysia | |
Polis Evo | Ghaz Abu Bakar | Malaysia | |
The Journey | Chiu Keng Guan | Malaysia | |
The Kid From The Big Apple | Jess Teong | Malaysia |
Harbour of Stories: Hong Kong On Screen
A city of rhythm, resilience, and reflection, Hong Kong takes center stage in Harbour of Stories—a special programme at the 8th MIFFest presented in collaboration with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO). This curated showcase features films that delve into themes of identity, memory, love, and connection. From poignant dramas to nostalgic melodies, each story captures the emotional heartbeat of a city in constant evolution, yet deeply rooted in its heritage. Discover the soul of Hong Kong cinema through its most compelling voices—intimate, vibrant, and profoundly human.
English title | Original title | Director(s) |
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Last Song for You | 久別重逢 | Jill Leung |
Montages of a Modern Motherhood | 虎毒不 | Oliver Chan |
The Way We Talk | 看我今天怎么说 | Adam Wong |
Valley of the Shadow of Death | 不赦之罪 | Jeffrey Lam Sen, Antonio Tam |
ASEAN On Screen
In celebration of Malaysia’s role as the Chair of ASEAN 2025, the 8th MIFFest proudly presents ASEAN On Screen—a special programme dedicated to the dynamic stories and voices of Southeast Asia. This curated selection of films from across the region invites audiences to experience a rich tapestry of cultures, bold creative visions, and compelling narratives. From intimate personal journeys to collective regional challenges, these films capture the essence of ASEAN on a global cinematic platform. Join us in honouring the spirit of unity, diversity, and storytelling through ASEAN On Screen—where Southeast Asia meets the world.
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production Country |
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Cu Li Never Cries | Cu Li không bao gio khóc | Pham Ngoc Lan | Vietnam |
Next Stop, Somewhere | James Lee | Malaysia | |
Stranger Eyes | 默視錄 | Yeo Siew Hua | Singapore |
Sunshine | Antoinette Jadaone | Philippines | |
Tale of the Land | Loeloe Hendra | Indonesia | |
The Stone | เดอะสโตน พระแท้ คนเก๊ | Arak Amornsupasiri, Vuthipong Sukhanindr | Thailand |
MIFFest x EUFF (Official Selection)
The 25th European Film Festival (EUFF) Malaysia will be held in conjunction with the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) from July 20–27, 2025. As a parallel section of MIFFest, this special collaboration brings the richness of European cinema to Malaysian audiences through a curated selection of films, exclusive screenings, and cultural showcases. Experience the diversity, artistry, and storytelling traditions of Europe—right here at MIFFest.
English title | Original title | Director(s) | Production Country |
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Armand | Halfdan Ullmann Tøndel | Norway/Netherlands/Sweden | |
Drazen | Danilo Šerbedžija, Ljubo Zdjelarević | Croatia/Slovenia/Serbia | |
Growing Down | Bálint Dániel Sós | Hungary | |
I Shall See | Mercedes Stalenhoef | Netherlands | |
Late Shift | Petra Volpe | Switzerland/Germany | |
Nasty | Tudor Giurgiu, Christian Pascariu, Tudor D. Popescu | Romania | |
Once Upon a Time in a Forest | Virpi Suutari | Finland | |
Spilt Milk | Brian Durnin | Ireland/UK | |
Taste of Freedom | Oleksandr Berezan | Ukraine | |
The Devil's Bath | Veronika Franz, Severin Fiala | Austria/Germany | |
The Girl with the Needle | Magnus von Horn | Denmark/Poland/Sweden | |
The Last Journey | Filip Hammar and Fredrik Wikingsson | Sweden | |
The Portuguese House | Avelina Prat | Spain/Portugal | |
The Time It Takes | Francesca Comencini | Italy/France | |
Year of the Widow | Veronika Lišková | Czechia/Slovakia/Croatia |
MGGA 2025
8th Malaysia Golden Global Awards | |
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Date | July 26, 2025 |
Site | Zepp Kuala Lumpur |
Hosted by | TBA |
Organized by | Jazzy Group Sdn Bhd |
The 8th Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA) will take place alongside the 8th Malaysia International Film Festival from July 19–27, 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, celebrating excellence in international and local filmmaking across categories like Best Film, Best Director, and Acting Awards.
Special Awards
Award for Excellence Achievement in Film 卓越电影成就奖 |
Reza Rahadian |
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Lifetime Achievement Award 终身成就奖 |
Ti Lung (Tommy Tam Fu-wing) 狄龙 (譚富榮) |
Nominees
Nominees Announced on June 12, 2025.
Best Film
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Best Director
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Best Actor
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Best Actress
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Best Supporting Actor
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Best Supporting Actress
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Best Screenplay
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Best Cinematography
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Audience Choice Award
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New Hope Award
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See also
- 2025 Cannes Film Festival
- 61st Golden Horse Awards
- Hong Kong Film Award
- Star Awards 2025
- 97th Academy Awards
References
- ^ Naman Ramachandran (17 June 2025). "Malaysian Drama 'Ninavau' Opens MIFFest, Environmental Epic 'Transamazonia' Closes". Variety. Retrieved 18 June 2025.
- ^ Michael Rosser (13 June 2025). "Bebbra Mailin's 'Ninavau' to open Malaysia film festival, Ti Lung to receive honour". ScreenDaily. Retrieved 18 June 2025.
- ^ Naman Ramachandran (17 April 2025). "Bront Palarae Returns to Malaysia Int'l Film Fest as Ambassador With Siti Saleha, Daiyan Trisha; Event Deepens India, Hong Kong, Europe Ties". Variety. Retrieved 27 June 2025.
- ^ Ian Jeremiah Patrick (12 June 2025). "Eighth Malaysia International Film Festival returns with global line-up, to showcase 62 films from 48 countries this July in KL". Malay Mail. Retrieved 19 June 2025.
- ^ "Film Lineup 2025". MIFFest. 12 June 2025. Retrieved 19 June 2025.