Creative industry can boost Malaysia-Indonesia ties, says ambassador
Published on: Tue, Apr 29, 2025
By: Bernama Text Size: Malaysia's ambassador to Indonesia, Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin, with Malaysian director Erma Fatima. JAKARTA: Malaysia's creative industry, particularly in film and drama, has the potential to become a new bridge for strengthening cultural ties with Indonesia, according to Malaysia's ambassador to Indonesia, Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin. Speaking during a courtesy call by Malaysian director Erma Fatima, whose real name is Fatimah Rahmad, and her delegation, he said the power of storytelling and the shared cultural values between the countries could help deepen bilateral relations. 'Once upon a time, Malaysia and Indonesia had a cultural exchange programme known as Titian Muhibah, organised by Radio Televisyen Malaysia, Televisi Republik Indonesia, and Radio Republik Indonesia,' he said. Syed Mohamad Hasrin said the programme had served as a platform for introducing arts and culture, and strengthening bilateral relations. 'It is time to revive the era of closeness between Malaysia and Indonesia. Through various creative initiatives, we can build new bridges that further strengthen the sense of kinship and the Nusantara spirit,' he said. The most successful local production to penetrate the Indonesian market so far is the animated series Upin & Ipin, which has captured the hearts of young viewers and become a cultural icon representing Malaysia across Indonesia. 'The success of Upin & Ipin proves that high-quality content that resonates with regional values has great potential for international acceptance,' Syed Mohamad Hasrin said. Malaysia can also take pride in its latest television series Bidaah, produced by Erma's Rumah Karya Citra, which has the potential to be another important platform for enhancing cultural ties with Indonesia. 'We hope that local works highlighting shared values will form the foundation for strong Malaysia–Indonesia relations and renew the spirit of cultural cooperation in this modern era,' Syed Mohamad Hasrin said. Since its premiere last month, Bidaah has become the most-watched drama on Viu, an online streaming platform, garnering over 2.5 billion views across digital platforms and social media in Malaysia and Indonesia. * Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss. * Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.
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