The 7th Malaysian International Film Festival Golden Global Awards celebrated the power of storytelling and cultural exchange, honouring films and artists that left an indelible mark on audiences worldwide
On July 27, the 7th Malaysian International Film Festival ended with the highly anticipated Golden Global Awards ceremony, celebrating exceptional figures in international cinema. The spectacular, prestigious event featured diverse films and performances, highlighting the festival’s dedication to fostering creativity and celebrating cultural exchange.
The festival’s highest honour, Best Film, was awarded to Every You Every Me, a German film directed by Michael Fetter Nathansky. This emotionally resonant film of love and loss also garnered awards for Aenne Schwarz as Best Actress and Michael Fetter Nathansky as Best Screenplay.
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The jury panel, led by Suhasini Maniratnam and including esteemed members Zhang Xianmin, Felix Chong, Kong Rithdee, and Zul Ariffin, stated that the film “boldly confronts the real-life challenges faced by the working class, particularly the struggles associated with monetary deficits. The film skillfully transforms these harsh realities into cinematic excellence by exploring multiple personality syndrome. It takes a courageous approach in portraying these complex issues, turning a lived experience into a compelling narrative that resonates with audiences.”
Alireza Ghasemi and Raha Amirfazli received the Best Director award for their work on In the Land of Brothers. The film tells the tale of an Afghan family struggling with their new lives in Iran, unaware that the worst is yet to come. It was celebrated for its bold depiction of a globally relevant issue and its exploration of complex familial relationships amidst times of great tension.

Above Jack Tan won Best Supporting Actor for his role in ‘Abang Adik’
The acting categories were packed with incredible talents and riveting performances. Wu Kang-ren received the Best Actor award for his powerful role in Abang Adik, a film that also saw Jack Tan win Best Supporting Actor. You Junfen’s outstanding performance in The Great Phuket earned her the title of Best Supporting Actress, further highlighting the calibre of performances featured at this year’s festival.
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Additionally, Tojo Xavier received the Best Cinematography accolade for his delightfully captivating visuals in Rapture. The New Hope Award, presented to emerging talents, was awarded to Betânia and Marcelo Botta. It recognised the Brazilian director’s innovative contribution to cinema with his film, which revolves around an elderly matriarch and her family’s struggle to preserve their identity.

Above Left to right: Joanne Goh, founder of the Malaysian International Film Festival, Hirokazu Kore-eda, Kim Dong Ho, honorary chairman of the Malaysian International Film Festival
The Golden Global Awards ceremony also paid tribute to two iconic figures in international cinema: Christine Hakim and Hirokazu Kore-eda, who received Lifetime Achievement Awards. Ibu Christine, revered as the ‘grande dame of Indonesian cinema’, has had a prolific career spanning over fifty decades. Upon receiving the award, she delivered a heartfelt sentimental speech reflecting on her journey. She expressed deep gratitude for the support and opportunities that have shaped her career and the ever-evolving landscape of cinema and its role in cultural storytelling.
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Distinguished Japanese filmmaker Hirokazu Kore-eda was recognised for his profound exploration of family and social themes, leaving a mark on international cinema with works like the Palme d’Or-winning Shoplifters. His acceptance speech resonated deeply with the audience as he discussed the universal power of cinema to connect people across borders.
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