THE Latin American Film Festival (LAFF) has returned to Penang for its fourth edition, offering a vibrant lineup of eight films spanning various genres and themes.
Running until Nov 17 at the Golden Screen Cinemas (GSC) in Gurney Plaza, the festival is open to the public with free admission.
During the LAFF’s opening ceremony, Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow reaffirmed the state government’s dedication to fostering closer ties with Latin American and Caribbean nations, aligning with the Penang2030 vision.
Chow, who attended the event with his wife, Tan Lean Kee, noted: “Audiences will not only enjoy the films but also gain insights into the culture, richness, and diversity of Latin American countries.
“From January to October this year, Penang welcomed 786 visitors from Latin America via international flights.
“I am confident that with strengthened cooperation and partnerships, we can further increase these numbers across various sectors, beyond tourism.
“Penang’s vibrant cultural landscape and enthusiastic community create the ideal setting for regular cultural festivals.”
Chow also proposed organising a Penang-Malaysian Film Festival in Latin American and Caribbean nations.
The LAFF kicked off with the Colombian film The Colour of the Mountain, a touching narrative of friendship amid adversity, which has earned accolades at the International Film Festival of Kerala.
This year’s festival features films from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Cuba, Mexico, Peru, and Uruguay.
Brazilian Ambassador to Malaysia Ary Quintella, who also serves as the Dean of the Latin American and Caribbean Diplomatic Corps, praised Penang’s multicultural atmosphere, highlighting its similarities with Latin America and the Caribbean.
“We hope the films showcased at this festival offer a glimpse into the vibrant lives of Latin America and the Caribbean,” he said.
The event was graced by ambassadors from Latin American and Caribbean nations present in Malaysia, including representatives from Cuba, Peru, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Argentina, and Uruguay.
Other distinguished guests included Tourism Malaysia Deputy Chairman Datuk Yeoh Soon Hin, Brazil’s honorary consul in Penang Datuk Annie Chin, and Chile’s honorary consul in Penang Datin Joelyn Teoh.
In a heartwarming gesture, the opening ceremony also featured a simple cake-cutting celebration to mark the Penang Chief Minister’s birthday.
Some of pictures clicked at the event :
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Siew Chia En