JFF2026 Welcome to the Official JFF2026 Website!

Greetings from The Japan Foundation, Kuala Lumpur!

We are delighted to welcome you to the Japanese Film Festival (JFF) 2026, marking the 22nd edition of the festival in Malaysia.

Over the years, JFF has grown beyond the cinema screens to become a space for cultural and knowledge exchange between Malaysia and Japan. Every year, the festival leaves a lasting impression on audiences, bringing together people from different backgrounds through the shared experience of film. JFF acts as a platform which highlights the close ties and common values between our two nations, while also encouraging us to reflect on ourselves and the world around us. In these increasingly unpredictable times, such opportunities for connection are especially important.

JFF has also evolved into a platform that nurtures future generations of film enthusiasts and storytellers. This year marks the third year of the JFF Filmmaking Workshop for students, providing aspiring young filmmakers with opportunities to learn, create and engage with the art of cinema.

This year's programme offers something for everyone, featuring a diverse selection of films ranging from thrillers and science fiction to heartfelt human dramas. We are also proud to present a special focus on legendary Japanese filmmaker YAMADA Yoji, who is celebrating his 95th birthday this year. With a remarkable career spanning more than six decades and over 90 films, YAMADA's works explore the depth of the human experience with warmth, compassion and humour. Best known for directing the beloved Tora-san series, his films continue to resonate with audiences across generations and borders. At a time when the world often feels divided, we hope his stories will remind us of our shared humanity and the importance of empathy.

The month-long festival will travel across the nation, bringing Japanese cinema to audiences in the Klang Valley, Penang, Johor Bahru, Kuching, and Kota Kinabalu.

JFF 2026 would not be possible without the generous support of our partners, sponsors and collaborators. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our Official Cinema Partner, GSC International Screens; our Official Media Partners, Goggler, Cinema Online, TV3, Melodi, 8TV and 8 E-Pulse; and our Collaborative Festival, What About Kuching Festival. We would also like to thank our sponsors, Mitsubishi Corporation, The Vida World, Canon Malaysia, Kinokuniya Bookstore, KOKUYO, HojichaYa, Manekineko, and Primeworks Studio for their invaluable support. Our sincere appreciation also goes to the Embassy of Japan in Malaysia, the Consulate-General of Japan in Penang, and the Consular Office of Japan at Kota Kinabalu for their cooperation and assistance.

To our long-time supporters, welcome back and thank you for your unwavering encouragement. To those joining us for the first time, welcome to the world of Japanese cinema! We are honoured to continue sharing the very best of Japanese filmmaking with audiences across Malaysia and hope that this year's festival will inspire, entertain, and create meaningful connections.

So, grab your popcorn and enjoy the movies!

JFF de Nihon-Eiga o tanoshinde kudasai!