Inspiring Hong Kong youth to embark on an exploration of ASEAN culture

A diverse region of almost 700 million people, Southeast Asia boasts strong economic growth with a young and well-educated population. These factors are conducive to the development of a vibrant arts and cultural scene, including a thriving production of motion pictures across the region.

With the goal of deepening Hong Kong youths’ understanding and appreciation of different cultures of Southeast Asian countries through the art of storytelling in films, The Hong Kong - ASEAN Foundation (HKAF), a non-profit organisation, launched the ASEAN FILM FESTIVAL. This initiative showcases the customs, traditions and lifestyles of these countries in a curated selection of films, by some of Southeast Asia’s most eminent filmmakers.

As part of this festival, a screening of the award-winning Cambodian film ‘White Building’ produced by the acclaimed director Mr Kavich Neang was held at M+ Cinema. The event was attended by over 40 youngsters and distinguished guests, including Mrs Phoeung Chanthida, Vice Consul of Cambodia in Hong Kong; Mr Daryl Ng, Chairman of HK-ASEAN Foundation; Mr Kavich Neang, the film director; and Ms Melanie Kwok, Assistant General Manager (Sustainability) of Hong Kong Heritage Conservation Foundation (HKHCF).

‘White Building’ centres around the story of Samnang, a 20-year-old resident of Phnom Penh, whose home is slated for demolition. The film highlights the role of art and cultural expression in preserving heritage and promoting community development, providing audiences with a glimpse into Cambodia’s traditions, cultures and community experiences. “It is my honour to have the film shown at the ASEAN FILM FESTIVAL, as it introduces foreign viewers to Cambodia’s distinct history and culture,” said director Neang.

Neang’s insights on the conservation of cultural and historically significant landmarks intertwine with the efforts of HKHCF. With the belief that conservation of cultural heritage helps the community build a sense of identity and strengthens bonds between people and places, HKHCF’s key mission is to conserve and revitalise historic buildings and to promote their significance.

“This festival aims to foster and promote cultural exchange, deeper understanding and appreciation of the colourful viewpoints and experiences that define our societies, especially amongst the younger generations,” said the Hon. Mrs PECH Puthisathbopeaneaky, Consul General of Cambodia in Hong Kong.

Ms Tsang, one of the young participants attending the screening, remarked, “This Film Festival has ignited my curiosity and interest in the customs of different ASEAN countries after seeing what Cambodia has to offer on screen. I feel like I definitely learnt a lot of new things about Cambodia, beyond just the country’s touristic attraction.”

Mr Daryl Ng, Chairman of HK-ASEAN Foundation, commends the ASEAN FILM FESTIVAL for promoting cross-cultural exchange and inspiring the younger generation in Hong Kong to explore the cultures of ASEAN countries. “I deeply appreciate the role art and cultural expression play in preserving and promoting our collective heritage, seeing that young people are interested in the film and Cambodian culture is heartening,” he said. “China and ASEAN countries have been each other’s largest trading partners for many years. By fostering strong trade and cultural exchange, we can further deepen China-ASEAN solidarity and friendship.”

The two-week festival will end on 19 August, over 600 Hong Kong local students and ASEAN students residing in Hong Kong have been invited to the 21 film screenings across the city.