4th Sept 2024 Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India The Malaysia Film Festival, a celebration of Malaysia’s vibrant cultural diversity and cinematic excellence, was held at Avichi College of Arts and Science in Chennai. Organized by the Consulate General of Malaysia Chennai and Tourism Malaysia Chennai in association with Avichi College of Arts and Science, the event brought together distinguished guests, filmmakers, and industry leaders to strengthen the cultural and tourism ties between Malaysia and South India.
The festival was graced by the presence of H.E. Mr. K. Saravana Kumar, Consul General of Malaysia for South India, who highlighted the festival’s role in showcasing Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage and promoting tourism. “Through the lens of cinema, we invite our friends from South India to explore Malaysia’s diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, and the unique blend of cultures that make our country a truly unique destination,” said Mr. Saravana Kumar during his remarks.
Also in attendance was Mr. Razaidi Abd Rahim, Director of Tourism Malaysia Chennai (South India & Sri Lanka), who emphasized the growing interest of Indian travelers in Malaysia. “With 573,479 arrivals from India to Malaysia from January to June 2024, marking an 89.3% increase compared to the same period last year, the festival is a timely celebration of our close ties. We look forward to welcoming even more visitors to experience the beauty and warmth of Malaysia,” he stated.
AVM K Shanmugam, Secretary of Avichi College of Arts and Science, expressed his delight in hosting the festival at the college. “This event is a testament to the strong cultural and educational bonds between our nations. We are honored to be a part of this celebration of cinema, which serves as a bridge between our people,” he said.
The festival featured critically acclaimed films such as Sumpahan Jerunei, Moondram Athisayam, Guang, and BoBoiBoy Movie 2, each showcasing Malaysia’s multiculturalism, diverse destinations, and vibrant cuisine. These films not only entertained but also offered a glimpse into the nation’s heart and soul, highlighting the shared values and cultural connections between Malaysia and India.
The event was also attended by Consul Generals from other consulates in Chennai, alongside travel and trade partners, further emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the festival.
The Malaysia Film Festival marks yet another milestone in the ongoing cultural exchange between Malaysia and India, reinforcing the role of cinema as a powerful tool for promoting tourism and understanding between nations.