FreedomFilmFest began in 2003 with the aim to create a much-needed platform for filmmakers and activists to showcase their films and advocate their causes to the Malaysian public. We were also imbued a strong desire to create an occasion to celebrate great films and filmmakers and to talk about films in an intimate, interactive, open atmosphere.
Taiwanese activist & film maker
Now in the 18th year of adolescence, the FreedomFilmFest has grown over the years and together we have created a unique unique spectacle of the latest critically acclaimed and social impact films featuring talents from Malaysia and the world over. The Festival constantly draws inspiration our mission to amplify voices from the margins of society, to shine a bright light on issues that we would rather sweep away and to take the initiative to highlight the finest local and regional filmmakers in their goal to lift the veil and champion real human stories.
The Festival and the filmmaking community that have become a part of this, have opened up conversations around films through discussion panels, workshops, masterclasses, and audience interactions to help us become a highly anticipated cultural event bringing together social activist circles and film going communities in Malaysia.

Festival Experiences
Nederlands

“The FreedomFilmFest is one of our new favourite film festivals in the world (and we have been to a lot of them! – 50 around the world with our latest film). It is a festival run with tremendous heart. We were deeply impressed – especially by the commitment and care from the organizing team. “
Petr Lom
Filmmaker of Burma Storybook
Image credit – humanfim.no
The Philippines

“As far as I know, it is the only documentary festival in southeast that focuses on human right issues and it is a good opportunity for human rights filmmakers to screen their film(s). Most memorable moment aside from screening films, for me is getting to know other human rights filmmakers.”
Bryan Kristoffer
Filmmaker

“FreedomFilmFest to me represents a Malaysia that is ready for a creative society that champions progressive change through cinema. As a Southeast Asian storyteller, I found a home in the company of courageous artists and cultural activists who bring the conversation of seeking truth and cultural understanding to the next level. The festival is the bridge the region needs to shed light on important social realities and find heroes who can make real change possible.”
Baby Ruth Villarama
Filmmaker of Sunday Beauty Queen
Image credit – @RuthVillarama

“A powerful platform for filmmakers to voice out different opinions. A public space to foster urban inclusion and to celebrate diversity.”
Lau Kek Huat
Filmmaker of The Tree Remembers & FreedomFilmFest2020 Festival Juror
Image credit- Busan Film Festival


Having been involved in FreedomFilmFest as a filmmaker, a judge, a speaker, and a panel member, and having participated in various community events during the festival, it’s difficult to choose the most memorable moment. Our film had one of its largest screenings to date, won an award, and went on to numerous other festival screenings as a result of FFF, and I was given the opportunity to meet net leading local activists. It was a fantastic week, and I was very glad to be part of it.”
Ben Randall
Filmmaker of Sisters for Sale, Special Mention for Best Feature Documentary at FreedomFilmFest2019
Image credit – human earth.com

Ana Jonessy
Festival Organiser
Image credit – heyanajonessy.wordpress.com

I was happy to be connected with the bicycle activists of KL and they took me for a day long tour around your amazing city. Markets, water ways, communities. Coming to a city and meeting people, learning from their stories is something that made me richer leaving the city. With a longing of coming back. As soon as possible. “
Fredrik Gertten
Filmmaker of the award-winning film Push, the Best Feature Documentary FreedomFilmFest2019
Credit – @FredrikGertten

Manuel Alberto Maia
Filmmaker of Nokas – Best South East Asia Film at FreedomFilmFest 2017
Image credit – goodpatch.org

Pandav Khatri
Festival Director, Nepal Human Rights International Film Festival
Image credit – NHRIIF

Rares Micheal Ghilezan
Filmmaker, “Mother, Daughter, Sister”
Image credit – mystic journeybookstore.com

Tan Tee Seng
Festival Organiser
Image credit – @tanteeseng

Al Jafree Md Yusop
Filmmaker/screenwriter and past Festival Juror
Image credit – @jafreeyusop


Jeremy Jecky
Filmmaker of Tei Kakah
Image credit – @JeremyJecky

Walli Khalik
Filmmaker of Clocked Out
Image credit – @wallikhalik