LSF Engages Film Communities at JAFF 2025 to Deepen Understanding of Film Censorship

Yogyakarta, December 6, 2025– One of the highlights of the Jogja NETPAC Asian Film Festival (JAFF) 2025 was its Community Forum, which brought together film community representatives from across Indonesia for a week-long exchange of ideas and perspectives.

Held in Yogyakarta from November 29, the forum became a platform for the Indonesian Film Censorship Institution (Lembaga Sensor Film / LSF) to explain key aspects of Law No. 33 of 2009 on Cinema, including censorship mechanisms and the use of e-SiAS, the electronic administration system for film censorship.

Many participants acknowledged their familiarity with Indonesia’s four age classifications All Ages (SU), 13+, 17+, and 21+. However, discussions also revealed ongoing challenges in aligning creative ideals, narrative intent, visual expression, and audience expectations within appropriate age categories.

Addressing the forum, Dewi Rahmarini, Chair of LSF’s Data and Information Sub-Commission, likened filmmaking to communication itself. “Filmmakers must deliver their message clearly to their intended audience. That’s why the purpose of a film needs to be well defined, so it can be received appropriately by viewers according to its age classification,” she explained.

Meanwhile, Tri Widyastuti Setyaningsih, Chair of LSF Commission I, reaffirmed LSF’s role in protecting the public from the potential negative impacts of inappropriate content. “We consistently remind audiences and creators alike to be wise in choosing what to watch,” she emphasized.

LSF also stressed the importance of collaboration and healthy relationships between institutions and creative communities. Strong partnerships, the agency noted, are key to producing meaningful works and sustaining a vibrant film ecosystem.

LSF concluded, not only reflects moral values, cultural identity, and national character, but also serves as a powerful showcase of Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity something eagerly anticipated by both domestic and international audiences.(Dew/Nuz)