Malaysia International Film Festival 2026 returns in July with "Resonance"

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Malaysia International Film Festival 2026 returns in July with "Resonance"

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Writer: Heidi Hsia

MIFFest returns for its 9th edition with the theme "Resonance"

3 Apr - The Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) has officially unveiled key highlights for its highly anticipated 9th edition, set to take place from 18 to 25 July 2026.

The announcement was made at a press conference held at PARKROYAL COLLECTION Kuala Lumpur, the festival's official hotel partner, revealing that the festival will once again open at MyTOWN Shopping Centre, in collaboration with GSC International Screens as the official cinema partner.

Supported by its strategic partner, the National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), the 9th edition of MIFFest introduces its theme, "Resonance", as envisioned by Joanne Goh, Founder and President of MIFFest, who frames cinema as a force that continues to move through us long after the final frame.

Joanne Goh, Founder and President of the festival

As shared by Joanne Goh, "Films do not end when the screen fades to black, they echo in conversations, in memory, and in the quiet hope of those seeking dignity and truth. At MIFFest, these echoes converge, amplifying the courage of storytellers and the urgency of their voices."

MIFFest also proudly unveils its 2026 ambassadors, reflecting a dynamic blend of established voices and emerging influence across Malaysia's creative landscape. Joining this year's line-up are Jack Tan and Zizan Razak, bringing fresh energy and new perspectives to the festival. They stand alongside Daiyan Trisha, returning for her second year, and Bront Palarae, who continues his longstanding journey with MIFFest for the seventh consecutive year.

Daiyan Trisha returns for her second year as ambassador of MIFFest

Following its successful debut, ASEAN On Screen returns for its second edition at MIFFest 2026, continuing its mission to celebrate Southeast Asian storytelling and strengthen regional collaboration.

Introduced by MIFFest, the initiative reflects a shared belief in cinema's power to amplify voices and bring Southeast Asia's rich cultural landscape onto the global stage. Through curated screenings, industry forums, and networking sessions, the programme brings together stories and perspectives from ASEAN countries, fostering dialogue on collaboration, identity, and the future of regional storytelling. It serves as a platform for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cultural partners to connect and collaborate.

Dato' Azmir Saifuddin says MIFFest has evolved as a bridge between Malaysia to international networks

As highlighted by Dato' Azmir Saifuddin Bin Mutalib, CEO of FINAS at the press conference, MIFFest has evolved into a strategic cultural platform connecting Malaysia to regional and international networks, with initiatives like ASEAN On Screen driving greater visibility, collaboration and growth within the Asian film ecosystem.

Building on the momentum of ASEAN On Screen, MIFFest expands its regional vision through a strategic collaboration with the Asian World Film Festival (AWFF 2026).

As part of this partnership, AWFF will introduce a dedicated segment, "Focus on ASEAN Countries, Presented by MIFFest". Selected ASEAN films curated under ASEAN On Screen will travel to AWFF, extending their reach to wider international audiences and creating new opportunities for filmmakers to engage with the global industry.