Malang. Malang’s local films are showing encouraging dynamics thanks to the active role of communities and film activists who continue to create works with distinctive regional cultural and linguistic characteristics.
These films by Malang-based filmmakers are inspired by local spirit. They not only feature stories and locations in Malang, but also foster a sense of community and collective artistic richness.
Malang-based director Sudjane Ken Ken said that initially, films from Malang were more often produced by student communities or independent filmmakers. Their work consisted of short films that were shown at local and national festivals.
However, in the observations of the man familiarly known as Ken Ken, in the last five to ten years, there have been significant changes in the development of film in Malang.
“Independent production houses are growing, young filmmakers in Malang are starting to branch out into feature films, some of which are even showing in national cinemas and digital platforms,” Ken Ken told Tugumalang.id on Monday (September 29, 2025).
The development of film in Indonesia has been growing rapidly in recent times, not only in Jakarta or Yogyakarta, but also in Malang. The city, previously known as a city of education and tourism, is beginning to assert itself as one of the film industry’s growth hotspots in East Java.
Community as the Backbone
Ken Ken further explained that the development of film in Malang is inextricably linked to the city’s numerous film communities. These communities provide a learning space, a forum for discussion, and even a place for experimentation for filmmakers.
“The community also opened alternative distribution channels, such as screenings on campus, in art spaces, and even at outdoor cinemas in villages,” he explained.
“With the spirit of mutual cooperation, this community is what keeps the flame of Malang film burning,” continued the director of the film entitled Bendera Sobek.
Furthermore, the presence of numerous universities in Malang consistently produces a new crop of young filmmakers. Its cultural and social landscape is increasingly rich, encompassing urban life, rural stories, colonial history, and even local languages and cultures.
For Ken Ken, who is also active in the Glanggang Film Festival, all of this is a source of authentic stories as well as an attraction that distinguishes Malang films from other cities.
Challenges and Hopes
Despite its rapid development, Malang’s film industry still faces several challenges, such as limited production funds, a lack of alternative cinema infrastructure, and uneven distribution.
However, with support from the local government, collaboration between communities, universities, and the creative industry, Ken Ken stated that Malang has great potential to become East Java’s film hub.
“In the long term, it is not impossible for Malang to compete with Yogyakarta and Bandung as a major film city in Indonesia,” he said.
“Malang is now not only a city of education and tourism, but also a city that is on its way to becoming a film city,” added Ken Ken.
Through its community spirit, youth creativity, and ecosystem support, Malang has the potential to become a new driving force for the national film industry.
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