The Indonesian Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, stated that increasing the number of cinemas is key to using film as a tool for promoting culture. As of June 2025, there are about 2,500 screens operating in the country; according to the minister, at least 10,000 are needed.
Speaking at the closing of the Balinale festival in Denpasar, Fadli Zon urged investors and independent directors to collaborate more actively with regional authorities. He emphasized that cinema serves as a platform for showcasing literature, dance, music, and national cuisine, making it a vital tool for cultural export.
The minister noted that Indonesia could follow the example of South Korea, the USA, and India, where cinema operates as a 'soft power.' In 2024, Indonesian films accounted for 67% of screen time, but this, according to him, is not enough.
The Ministry of Culture also focuses on the quality of scripts: good ideas will fail without proper execution, which is why the department conducts workshops and training programs for scriptwriters.
According to Zon, the main obstacle to the development of the film industry is the lack of screens. Meanwhile, Bali, with its many traditional halls and outdoor venues, can hardly complain. However, Indonesian cinema is not particularly popular among expats yet.
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