Malaysian cinephiles, get your Letterboxd accounts ready!

The Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) is returning for its 8th edition this July 19 to 27, 2025, continuing its objective to bridge Malaysian and global cinema through rich and diverse storytelling.

This year’s edition features 62 films from over 48 countries and in 43 languages, presenting a wide variety of narratives from around the world. The films will be shown at MYTown, with the Golden Awards Night set to happen at Zepp KL on July 26.

The Malaysia International Film Festival 2025 will open with the Malaysian film “Ninavau.” Directed by Bebbra Mailin, the film follows the story of a native Kadazan woman returning from Peninsular Malaysia to her Catholic family in Sabah, exploring cultural identity and emotional heritage.

The festival will close with “Transamazonia,” an international co-production that spans France, Brazil, Germany, Switzerland, and Taiwan. The film explores themes of resilience, transformation, and urgent environmental issues through visually stunning storytelling.

The 8th Malaysia International Film Festival will also honor legends and notable personalities for their contributions to film. The Lifetime Achievement Award will be awarded to legendary Hong Kong actor and martial artist Ti Lung, whose unforgettable roles have shaped martial arts and crime dramas.

The Excellence Award in Film will be given to Indonesian actor Reza Rahadian, who is renowned for his roles in “Habibie & Ainun” and “My Stupid Boss” and his dedication to South Asian cinema.

Highlights of the upcoming Malaysia International Film Festival 2025 include open-air cinema screenings of beloved Malaysian classics such as “The Journey,” “Mufanik 2,” “Polis Evo 1,” and more, special tributes to pillars in Indian cinema such as Raj Kapoor and a focus on women filmmakers, and a special segment that features the evolving identity of modern Hong Kong.

This year’s Distinguished Jury Panel includes popular names like acclaimed British filmmaker Asif Kapadia, Hong Kong actress Jennifer Yu, Indonesian actor Reza Rahadian, Indian filmmaker Rima Das, and Malaysian actress and cultural icon Diana Danielle.

Visit the official Malaysia International Film Festival website for more information on tickets and the full lineup. Follow the Malaysia International Film Festival on Facebook and Instagram.