Jakarta, 13 August 2025 – The Ministry of Creative Economy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Indonesian films that showcase local stories, culture, and hyperlocal content within the creative industry. One such film recognized for embodying these values is Black Coffee, produced by Heart Pictures.
Menteri Ekonomi Kreatif, Teuku Riefky Harsya, menerima audiensi film Black Coffee garapan Heart Pictures, Jakarta, rabu (13/08/2025).
“We see hyperlocal films as having potential for national audiences and for participation in international festivals in the future. The market segment for Black Coffee already exists. Hopefully, the commercial aspect of this socially-themed film can be promoted through the Ministry of Ekraf’s strategic partners,” said Minister of Creative Economy Teuku Riefky Harsya during a meeting at Autograph Tower, Jakarta, on Wednesday, 13 August 2025.
Currently in post-production, Black Coffee explores and introduces the beauty of Gayo culture, its landscapes, and the lives of coffee farmers. The film tells the inspiring story of a middle-aged blind couple living in a Gayo community village in Central Aceh, who lead a simple life as coffee farmers while awaiting the arrival of a child.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
During the meeting, Minister Teuku Riefky emphasized that support for Black Coffee is part of the commercialization process relevant to the creative economy as a new engine of national economic growth starting from regional areas. He also noted that the film holds great potential for collaboration, as it promotes various subsectors of the creative economy and supports business growth in Aceh Province, particularly Takengon, known for its natural beauty and the unique Gayo coffee. Aceh is among the 15 priority provinces for creative economy development as directed by President Prabowo.
“Black Coffee can also be connected with the highest customary institution in Aceh, such as Wali Nanggroe. We can provide a recommendation letter so that the strategy extends beyond film promotion to include promoting North Aceh Regency as a Creative District. This is the form of support we are ready to collaborate on, ensuring the potential of each creative economy subsector gains wider recognition,” stated Minister Teuku Riefky, accompanied by Director of Film, Animation, and Video Doni Setiawan.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
Support from the Ministry of Ekraf can play a role in the value chain, particularly in promoting Black Coffee, thereby increasing optimism within Heart Pictures and enriching the dynamics of Indonesia’s film industry.
“The Ministry of Ekraf covers not only film, animation, and video, but also culinary, crafts, and fashion. Therefore, we will support the commercialization process of Black Coffee, which is rooted in culture, enhanced by innovation, high-quality cinematography, and original scriptwriting, highlighting public interest to create economic value,” explained Special Staff to the Minister for Strategic Issues and Inter-Agency Affairs, Rian Syaf.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
The production of Black Coffee, which involves 41 shooting locations, also empowers the Acehnese community by involving local residents as crew and supporting cast.
“Not only does the film highlight Gayo traditions and culture, it also showcases Gayo coffee and Indonesian farmers. From a creative industry and economic perspective, we hope this project can open broad collaboration opportunities. We invite many parties to participate, including Acehnese and local entrepreneurs, to reach international markets,” said Herty Purba, producer.
Communication Bureau of the Ministry of Creative Economy/Creative Economy Agency.
“Gayo is beautiful, with strong customs and culture, making it an integral part of Indonesia that should be known widely, including by international audiences. As filmmakers, it is our responsibility to tell Gayo’s story through a simple yet strong narrative. The Gayo setting presents culture, stunning landscapes, and extraordinary cuisine,” added Jeremias Nyangoen, director and scriptwriter of Black Coffee.
“Gayo is holistic, not just about cuisine, but its culture makes it unique and expressive. Black Coffee conveys life lessons in a simple yet powerful manner, reflecting the fibers of Acehnese culture in a dramatic and high-quality way. The film was produced with a unique spirit, and its research process spanned nearly 13 years,” said Sha Ine Febriyanti, lead actress of Black Coffee.
Kiagoos Irvan Faisal
Acting Head of the Bureau for Communication
Ministry of Creative Economy / Creative Economy Agency
