ASEAN Film Festival inspires youth to embark on exploration of ASEAN culture

The ASEAN Film Festival recently held a special screening of the award-winning Cambodian film 'White Building' at M+ Cinema, with over 40 young people and guests attending.

Among the guests are Phoeung Chanthida, Vice Consul of Cambodia in Hong Kong, and Daryl Ng, Chairman of HK-ASEAN Foundation.

The screening was followed by a sharing session by Kavich Neang, the film director of 'White Building' and Melanie Kwok, Assistant General Manager (Sustainability) of Hong Kong Heritage Conservation Foundation, to offer attendees the opportunity to experience and learn more about Cambodian culture and sharing about the country's heritage.

'White Building' was Neang's first fictional feature, follows a twenty-year-old Samnang, whose home is slated for demolition. The film presents how art and cultural expression can contribute to preserving heritage and promoting community development by highlighting the experiences of communities.

"I was inspired to make this film because it directly reflects my personal experience," says Kavich Neang. "The White Building is full of stories, and seeing first hand my neighbours pack their possessions and leave was an emotional experience."

He added that having the film shown at the ASEAN Film Festival is an honor, as it introduces foreign viewers to Cambodia's distinct history and culture.

Melanie Kwok also shared how HKHCF has worked with partners, including local artists, cultural organizations, and local communities, to preserve and promote the cultural heritage of Tai O in Hong Kong.

The film festival started on 4 August and will close on 19 August. Over 600 local students and ASEAN students residing in Hong Kong have been invited to the 21 film screenings across the city.

Tickets for the upcoming public screenings are available online through the M+ Cinema and the sky (Olympian City) websites.