Jakarta, June 2, 2025 — Deputy Minister of Creative Economy, Irene Umar, and Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon, attended the special screening of the film Gowok on Monday, June 2, 2025. Their presence marked a joint effort to promote Indonesia’s rich cultural heritage and advance a creative economy rooted in cultural values and innovation.
Gowok, the latest film by renowned director Hanung Bramantyo, explores an ancient Javanese tradition through a bold and meaningful cinematic approach. The film will be released in cinemas across Indonesia on June 5, 2025, following its competition at the 2025 International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR).
“Gowok powerfully revives a nearly forgotten cultural legacy, presenting it through a compelling and emotional narrative that opens up discussions on tradition, social relationships, and the understanding of cultural identity,” said Deputy Minister Irene Umar at the film screening at Plaza Senayan, Jakarta.
Minister Fadli Zon also expressed his appreciation for the film, praising its portrayal of Indonesia’s cultural richness. “This is an outstanding film. It reflects our diversity and storytelling prowess. I’m truly impressed and proud to see our cultural heritage portrayed so beautifully,” he added.
As one of the strategic key sub-sectors of the creative economy, the film industry holds great potential in elevating local creative works to the global stage. Deputy Minister Irene highlighted that Gowok serves as an effective medium for conveying social and cultural messages to a broader audience.
The release of Gowok is expected to further boost the growth of Indonesia’s film industry, strengthen the creative economy’s role in the national GDP, and inspire more films to promote sustainable growth by highlighting local stories and cultural heritage.
Also present at the event were Yovie Widianto, Presidential Special Staff for the Creative Economy, and Gowok director Hanung Bramantyo.
Reslyana Dwitasari
Acting Head of Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency
