The Embassies of Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay jointly hosted the 5th Latin American Film Festival (LAFF) at Wawasan Open University on October 30, celebrating the vibrant cultures and cinematic excellence of Latin America.
The event was graced by Guest of Honour, Penang Governor Tun Tun Ramli Ngah Talib along with Penang Chief Minister YAB Chow Kon Yeow, along with members of the diplomatic corps, industry representatives, and local dignitaries.
A large audience turned up to enjoy a selection of acclaimed Latin American films that showcased the region’s diverse storytelling traditions, social themes, and artistic innovation.
In his address, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow noted that while Latin American investments in Penang remain modest — the most recent being from Belize in 2020 — the state remains optimistic about expanding cooperation with Latin America.
“We hope this will pave the way for more Latin American countries to engage with us, whether through trade, innovation, education, or culture, as we celebrate Latin America tonight through film, music, and stories that transcend borders,” he said.
Chow further emphasised that the Latin American Film Festival represents more than a cinematic showcase:
“It is a bridge that connects the Pacific coast of Latin America to the shores of Penang and the Strait of Malacca. And like any strong bridge, it goes both ways — enabling not only cultural exchange but also friendship and understanding. Although separated by oceans, our regions share deep historical and cultural ties, from our colonial pasts to our shared commitment to independence, justice, and development. We are, in fact, more connected than we may think.”
The Latin American Film Festival 2025 runs until November 2, featuring a vibrant lineup of films from Mexico, Chile, Peru, and Colombia. Screenings are held at Coex @ Kilang Besi, located at Hin Bus Depot, George Town, with free admission for the public.
Also present at the opening ceremony were Datin Joelyn Teoh, Honorary Consul of Chile in Penang; Dato Annie Chin, Honorary Consul of Brazil in Penang; Dato Yeoh Soon Hin, Deputy Chairman of Tourism Malaysia and Chairman of the Penang Port Commission; Dato Tony Goh, Chairman of the Malaysian Association of Hotels (Penang Chapter); Ms Carolyn Leong, Chairman of MATTA Penang Chapter; and Dr Mary Ann Harris, Executive Director of the Penang Development Corporation (PMED), among others.
The festival continues to serve as a platform for cultural diplomacy, fostering mutual understanding and collaboration between Malaysia and Latin America through the universal language of film.
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