PARFI'56 Calls for Global Collaboration for Human Well-being of Film on Indonesian Film Day 2026

JAKARTA - Commemorating National Film Day which falls on March 30, the Indonesian Film Artists Association (PARFI'56) emphasized its commitment to continue to fight for the strengthening of the film ecosystem in the country.

The Chairman of PARFI'56, Marcella Zalianty, said that this year's momentum was a strategic turning point for the national film industry not only to celebrate achievements, but also to solve challenges that have long been faced by film people.

"National Film Day 2026 is a moment of awakening. We see a positive graph where Indonesian films host their own country with significant audience penetration, but we must not stop there. We must ensure that this awakening is accompanied by the protection and welfare of film workers including healthy working hours, intellectual property rights, and equitable access and infrastructure," said Marcella Zalianty in a written statement, March 30.

PARFI'56 noted a significant increase in achievements over the past two decades that put Indonesian films on the global cinema map. The success of a number of Indonesian films in the International such as The Raid: Redemption, Pengabdi Setan, The Raid 2: Berandal. Marlina the Murderer of Four Chapters, Pengabdi Setan, Kucumbu Tubuh Indahku (Memories of My Body), Like Vengeance - Rindu Harus Dibayar Tuntas, Rectoverso, Yuni, Sekala Niskala, Women From Rote Island, Gadis Kretek Series, Pangku, and many more. The latest is Para Perasuk (Levitating) which was selected in the World Cinema Dramatic Competition at the 2026 Sundance Film Festival.

"This achievement in the international world is not only a pride, but also a spur. The local narrative with a strong artistic approach proves that Indonesian films are able to compete globally. Our cultural diversity and social issues also have universal resonance," said Marcella, who has just completed her latest film Ratu Malaka by Angga D Sasongko.

PARFI'56 appreciates the steps of the Indonesian Ministry of Culture and the Ministry of Creative Economy which support the efforts of collaboration in the production of domestic cultural performances and open opportunities for cooperation with foreign countries.

Responding to the dynamics of the industry, PARFI'56 conveyed great expectations to the government, both at the central and regional levels, to create a more conducive business climate. PARFI'56 also welcomes the initiative of the DKI Jakarta Provincial Government which is currently formulating a tax incentive policy for the film industry. "We encourage all regional governments to follow this step. Tax incentives not only relieve production burdens, but also encourage investment and make the region a competitive filming location," said Marcella.

PARFI'56 reminded the importance of completing the revision of Law No. 33 of 2009 concerning Film, as well as the completion of the National Film Master Plan (RIPN) which is currently being discussed with the Indonesian Film Agency (BPI) to map out a structured industry roadmap.

PARFI'56 also highlighted the inequality in the distribution of movie screens, which is still concentrated on Java, while many areas in eastern Indonesia do not have adequate access. "We support the acceleration of the development of cinemas in areas that have not been reached," said Marcella.

Behind the glitz of achievements and high audience numbers, PARFI'56 also highlights the fundamental issue of the welfare of film people, ranging from actors, crews, to other creative workers. "We remind the importance of standardizing competence and legal protection for film workers. Currently, there are still many young talents working with unclear contracts and wages that are not yet worthy. Through the momentum of National Film Day, we invite the entire film ecosystem to implement fair and conducive employment practices," said Marcella.

PARFI'56 also encourages the role of the Ministry of Creative Economy to ensure that there is integrated data regarding the number of film workers and standard wages, so that the position of film actors is clear as professionals in the Manpower Law. In addition, it is also necessary to protect and protect actors when AI in the film industry which will become mainstream

"We also invite all Indonesian people to love Indonesian films more by watching them in cinemas and not pirated films. Let's make this National Film Day not just a ceremony, but as a starting point for collaboration. Between generations, between local governments and the center, and between the government and the private sector. We believe that with a strong ecosystem, equitable infrastructure, and guaranteed welfare of film people, Indonesia will not only host in its own country, but also become a major force in the world film industry," concluded Marcella.

The Indonesian Film Artists Association (PARFI'56) is a professional organization that serves as the main platform for Indonesian actors and actresses in fighting for professional rights, improving the standard of quality of art, and building a sustainable national film ecosystem.