The 62nd Asia Pacific Film Festival (APFF) was officially introduced today through a press conference at GSC Mid Valley Megamall, signalling the return of one of the region’s most iconic film celebrations.
First held in 1954 by the Federation of Motion Picture Producers in Asia Pacific (FPA), the APFF is a travelling event that has toured various member nations for over sixty years, honouring outstanding achievements in filmmaking while promoting cultural understanding across borders. The 2025 edition is set to run from 29 November to 6 December in Kuala Lumpur, with all film screenings hosted at GSC Cinemas, the festival’s Official Cinema Partner. The event is presented by Lomo Pictures Sdn. Bhd., a Malaysian production house committed to showcasing works that value creative authenticity and amplify regional voices.
At the launch, Organising Chairman Aron Koh expressed that hosting the APFF in Malaysia once again is both a tribute to cinema and a sign of trust in the nation’s creative sector. He described the festival as belonging to everyone who believes in the ability of stories to connect people regardless of boundaries.
FPA Secretary General Pansha shared that returning the festival to Malaysia feels like coming home, highlighting the organisation’s mission to nurture communities and offer a platform for new storytellers. He reaffirmed that cinema remains one of the strongest mediums for building connections and fostering cultural dialogue.
One of the day’s biggest reveals was the announcement of Academy Award winner Peter Pau as Jury President for the Asia Pacific Competition. Hailing from Hong Kong and raised in a family closely linked to the film industry, Pau graduated from the San Francisco Art Institute in 1983 and rose to global prominence for his masterful cinematography, particularly in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, which earned him the Oscar for Best Cinematography. With over forty years of experience and acclaimed works such as The Bride with White Hair, Perhaps Love, and Sword Master, Pau brings a wealth of expertise and international stature to the jury.
The APFF also honoured Malaysian actor Syafiq Kyle with the FPA Asia Pacific Rising Icon Award, recognising his increasing influence and contributions to cinema in the region. Since gaining attention as a finalist in Hero Remaja, Syafiq has established himself as one of the country’s most versatile leading actors, delivering notable performances in Sheriff Narko Integriti, The Experts, and Blood Brothers Bara Naga.
Adding to the excitement, the official key visual for this year’s festival was revealed, crafted by local independent artist and designer Iqbal Hakim Boo. The design embodies APFF’s dedication to promoting the distinct artistic identity and creative spirit of the region.
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