The ASEAN New Generation Short Film Award 2025, open to young filmmakers from the ASEAN Member States, received 157 submissions this year. Under the ASEAN theme for 2025, “Inclusivity and Sustainability,” the competition invited short films of 2–3 minutes based on the theme “I Belong.”
For the first time, a public screening and audience voting session were held at the ASEAN-Japan Centre, allowing Japanese participants to experience ASEAN’s creativity firsthand.
Viewers shared reflections on how the films inspired empathy and deeper awareness of diversity across the region.
The five award-winning films are now available on AJC’s Instagram and YouTube channels.
Award-Winning Films
(in alphabetical order)
Be Here, Again – Nicole and Anabelle (NotAvail.TV) / Indonesia
HE WHO HAS NO NAME – Edsel Gasmen / Philippines
PROM QUEER – Dylan / Philippines
The Perfect Employee – Nguyễn Năng Hải An / Viet Nam
Saudade – Tahani Vidra Putri / Indonesia
Most Popular Film Award: PROM QUEER
About the ASEAN Short Film Award
The ASEAN-Japan Centre (AJC) aims to deepen understanding of ASEAN and its ten Member States in Japan, fostering mutual friendship and cooperation. The ASEAN New Generation Short Film Award, launched in 2024, seeks to introduce the diverse cultures, perspectives, and creativity of ASEAN youth to Japanese audiences through the power of storytelling.
Screening and Audience Voting
On September 19, the AJC hosted the “ASEAN Short Film Screening & Special Talk” event, where 14 shortlisted films were shown to the public. A total of 26 participants joined the voting, which determined PROM QUEER as the winner of the Most Popular Film Award.
Outcomes and Impact
The screening inspired thoughtful comments and emotional responses from participants, who found common ground with ASEAN’s new generation of storytellers. Through the films’ messages and visual narratives, Japanese audiences gained a sense of closeness and empathy toward ASEAN societies.
Audience Comments (partial excerpt & translated from Japanese):
“It made me realize how daily life among people in ASEAN and Japan shares many similarities despite cultural differences.”
“Many films addressed diversity and belonging in ways that offered meaningful insights for Japanese society as well.”
“Although made by the ‘new generation,’ I could relate to their perspectives—grappling with tradition, social media, and everyday struggles.”
“The films tackled global issues—identity, gender, race, and belonging—in very real and thought-provoking ways.”
Key takeaways
- The second edition of the Award received 157 entries from young creators across ASEAN region.
- Introduced a public screening and voting format to encourage audience participation in Japan.
- Sparked reflection among Japanese viewers on themes of diversity, belonging, and shared values.
- Showcased ASEAN’s vibrant creativity and youth perspectives to Japanese audiences.
Way Forward
The five award-winning films have been featured as “ASEAN Short Film Collection Vol. 2” on the AJC’s Instagram and YouTube. The AJC also plans future events for wider audiences in Japan and will publish interviews with the winning filmmakers to share the stories behind their works.
