As the Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) approaches its 10th anniversary next year, founder Joanne Goh is looking beyond expansion.
“We expect the festival to become a hub of Southeast Asia,” Goh tells Variety, outlining her vision for MIFFest as a meeting place for filmmakers, producers and industry leaders across the region.
That vision gained momentum this year when MIFFest’s ASEAN On Screen program received official recognition from ASEAN Records, a milestone Goh sees as only a beginning.
Unlike many Asian festivals competing for world premieres and international attention, Goh believes MIFFest can distinguish itself by strengthening regional collaboration. She points to Malaysia’s multicultural identity and growing role in the film business as key advantages.
“Malaysia has already become one of the most important partners in the industry,” she says.
