The International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies Malaysia (IAIS) and the Johor Public Library Corporation (PPAJ) had collaborated to host the 20th Kazan (Russia) International Muslim Film Festival in Johor from the 13th until the 15th of June, 2024, marking the first time PPAJ has been involved as a host.
The festival, which began with an opening ceremony presided over by Her Highness Che Puan Khaleeda Mahkota Johor, aims to broaden public libraries’ role in promoting culture, education, and the arts through other media, particularly film.
“In addition to the opportunity to enjoy works of art from Kazan, it is also an opportunity to understand the values of life and culture of Kazan, which is a symbol of the relationship between Kazan and Johor, which is rich in history, culture, and unique traditions,” Her Highness said in her speech, hoping that the film festival can change the view of local filmmakers that the library can also be used as a platform to showcase their works so that more people have the opportunity to watch their films.
Also present were Johor Menteri Besar’s wife, Datin Sharmin Fazlina binti Mohd Shukor, Johor Education and Information Committee Chairperson Aznan bin Tamin, and Johor Women, Family and Development Committee Community Chairperson Hajah Khairin-Nisa binti Ismail @ Md On.
Also in attendance were Russian Federation Ambassador to Malaysia His Excellency Naiyl M. Latypov, PPAJ Director Ungku Hajah Noorakmal Ungku Sulaiman, and International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies Chairperson Prof. Dr Maszlee Malik.
A total of seven films were shown during the whole festival, namely Ibn Fadlan, Tarlan, Almandar of Aldermysh, Ostazbika, Mullah, Halima, and My People of Tatars.
The variety of films premiered, reflected Kazan’s uniqueness, with each film being the result of extraordinary creativity from film producers who have won awards in the film industry.
A dialogue session to exchange ideas with the hope of opening doors for further collaboration between Kazan film directors and local film directors and students was also held during the festival.
In line with Her Highness’ speech and mutual bilateral partnership, Dato’ Azmir Saifudin Mutalib, Chief Executive Officer of The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), welcomes and supports the organisation of this kind of programme, and it is also one of FINAS’ strategies for increasing culture, viewing, and appreciation of quality cinema through the strategic collaboration of various agencies and film communities throughout the country.
This festival expected to change the view of local filmmakers that the library can also be used as a platform to showcase their works so that more people are aware and have the opportunity to watch their films.
In its statement, PPAJ is also looking at signing a collaboration between the two parties for education, publication, training, and exhibitions in the future.
