Creative industry can strengthen Malaysia-Indonesia relations, says ambassador

The Star

29-04-2025

A press conference with the stars of the Viu series Bidaah. The series has the potential to be another important platform for enhancing cultural ties with Indonesia. - ONG SOON HIN/The Star
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, Datuk Syed Mohamad Hasrin Tengku Hussin.
Speaking during a courtesy call by renowned Malaysian director Erma Fatima, whose real name is Fatimah Rahmad, and her delegation, he said that the power of storytelling and the shared cultural values between the two 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 (RTM), Televisi Republik Indonesia (TVRI), and Radio Republik Indonesia," he said.
Syed Mohamad Hasrin noted that the programme served as a platform to introduce the arts, culture, and to strengthen bilateral relations continuously. However, it is no longer active, leaving a gap in the once-close cultural ties.
"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 has been 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," he added.
Malaysia can now also take pride in the 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. - Bernama