Jakarta, 1 April 2026 — Using the Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) electric rail system, 17 members of the Indonesian Film Censorship Board (LSF RI) departed from their office on Jalan Sudirman to Grand Indonesia on Jalan MH Thamrin, Jakarta, on Wednesday (1 April 2026).

This was followed by the event “LSF Nonton Film Indonesia 2026” held at Starium CGV cinema with 438 participants from several universities in the Greater Jakarta area, communities, and the general public who registered through the @lsf_ri Instagram account.

Participants were encouraged to use public transportation as part of cost-saving measures amid the ongoing global energy crisis, following the war involving the United States, Israel, and Iran, which has entered its fifth week.

The event was opened by Minister of Culture Fadli Zon and was part of the National Film Day (HFN) 2026 series, observed annually on 30 March. The date was established by the Third President of the Republic of Indonesia, B.J. Habibie, through Presidential Decree Number 25 of 1999. On that date, 76 years ago, filming began for Darah dan Doa, marking the birth of Indonesian cinema. Participants were invited to watch the film directed by Usmar Ismail, known as the father of Indonesian cinema.

In his remarks, Fadli emphasized the significant potential of Indonesian film and its relevance as a cultural force. “Coal, nickel, and oil will run out. Culture will not disappear as long as people exist. We hope that the cultural economy and cultural industries will continue to grow, and that our film ecosystem will remain strong compared to other countries,” he said.

Meanwhile, LSF Chair Naswardi stated that the event serves as an appreciation of a monumental work in Indonesian cinema. “This morning, we bring together the past as a historical milestone of Indonesian cinema with the current era of achievement and development that we are proud of,” he said.

During the event, LSF presented a certificate of appreciation to the director’s family in recognition of Darah dan Doa as the first Indonesian national film. The film was also classified as suitable for audiences aged 17 and above.

The event also featured a discussion involving filmmaker Joko Anwar and Chair of the Usmar Ismail Film Center Foundation, Sonny Pudjisasono. (Rosalinda/Nuz)