“As long as we exist, FFWI will continue to exist.”

Those words filled the room at CGV FX Sudirman, Jakarta, on a Wednesday afternoon in July. The voice of Ahmad Mahendra, Director General of Culture of Indonesia, echoed through walls that had witnessed countless stories immortalized on celluloid. He stood before faces familiar with cameras and words—Christine Hakim, Adisurya Abdy, Zairin Zain, Noorca Massardi—as if reciting a vow.

This was not just an announcement of a name change from *Festival Film Wartawan Indonesia* to *Festival Film Wartawan (FFW)*. This was the reading of a testament.

A Name That Changes, A Spirit That Remains

FFWI—or now FFW—is a festival born from the hands of journalists, for journalists, but also for all who believe that film is more than mere entertainment. “This is a vital part of Indonesia’s film ecosystem,” said Mahendra in the presence of the Chairman of the Indonesian Film Censorship Board, Dr. Naswardi, M.M., M.E., Film Director Syaifullah Agam Ph.D., and a lineup of senior journalists from the Central PWI and PWI Jaya, along with dozens of national film journalists.

For five years, he has guided this festival, from his time as Director of Film, Music, and Media to now holding the position of Director General of Culture.

But behind those numbers, there is one name that never leaves his narrative: Wina Armada Sukardi.

Wina: The Creator Who Now Lives On as a Spirit

“FFW and Mas Wina are inseparable,” said Mahendra, his voice trembling as he spoke the name. Wina, who has passed, was the architect of this festival. He drafted the manifesto of National Hero Umar Ismail, he conceived FFWI, he laid the foundation.

“I met him at the end of his tenure, but his insights on film never ceased,” Mahendra recalled. Here, we see a poetic irony: it was at the end that a meeting could give birth to an eternal loyalty.

Not Just Physical, But Also Spiritual

“This is not just about physical closeness, but also a deep spiritual bond,” Mahendra continued. His words painted a relationship that transcended bureaucracy—a bond between two people who believed in the same ideals.

And now, in Wina’s absence, FFW must stand on its own. “This must be a driving force to improve,” Mahendra asserted. Because for Wina, FFWI was not just a festival. It was a bridge, a stage for appreciation, a space for honesty and critique.

A Legacy That Must Live On

“May the spirit and vision of the late Wina inspire us to make FFW even better,” Mahendra concluded. A simple wish, yet a heavy one. For he was not just speaking of an annual event—he was speaking of keeping a flame alive.

Outside the building, Jakarta remained busy with the hum of engines and ceaseless footsteps. But inside CGV FX, on that Wednesday afternoon, time seemed to pause.

We witnessed a moment where a name changed, a maestro departed, but a spirit endured.

And as long as that spirit breathes—*as long as there are those who remember*—FFW will continue to exist.

Perhaps this is the beauty of a festival born from the hands of journalists: it is a story about stories, a film about films. And like a great film, FFW—once FFWI—will not end with the final credits.

It will keep playing, remembered, and lived.

Just like the memory of Wina.

Just like Ahmad Mahendra’s commitment.

And just like film critiques born from the hands of journalists—stories that never truly end.

CGV FX Sudirman

CGV FX Sudirman is a modern cinema located in the FX Sudirman mall in Jakarta, Indonesia. It is part of the CGV chain, known for its high-quality screens and premium viewing experiences, including IMAX and 4DX theaters. The mall itself is situated in the bustling Sudirman Central Business District, reflecting Jakarta’s urban entertainment and commercial growth.

Festival Film Wartawan Indonesia

The **Festival Film Wartawan Indonesia (FFWI)** is an annual film festival in Indonesia organized by the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI). Established to celebrate and critique Indonesian cinema, it highlights films selected and judged by journalists, emphasizing storytelling and cultural relevance. The festival serves as a platform to promote local filmmakers and strengthen the relationship between the media and the film industry.

Festival Film Wartawan (FFW)

The Festival Film Wartawan (FFW) is an Indonesian film festival established in 1984 by the Indonesian Journalists Association (PWI). Originally created to showcase films made by or about journalists, it has since expanded to include a broader range of Indonesian cinema, promoting local talent and storytelling. The festival remains a notable cultural event, celebrating the intersection of journalism and filmmaking in Indonesia.

Indonesian Film Censorship Board

The Indonesian Film Censorship Board (LSF, or *Lembaga Sensor Film*) is a government agency responsible for reviewing and censoring films before public release to ensure they align with Indonesia’s cultural, religious, and moral values. Established in 1965, the LSF has played a key role in regulating content, often restricting scenes involving violence, sexuality, or political dissent. While critics argue it limits creative freedom, supporters claim it preserves national identity and social harmony.

Central PWI

“Central PWI” likely refers to the **Central Plantation Crops Research Institute (CPCRI)** in India, a leading research institution focused on plantation crops like coconut, areca nut, cocoa, and spices. Established in 1916 in **Kasaragod, Kerala**, it plays a key role in agricultural innovation and sustainable farming practices. The institute contributes significantly to India’s plantation economy through research, development, and farmer education.

(If “Central PWI” refers to a different institution or site, please provide additional context for a more accurate summary.)

PWI Jaya

“PWI Jaya” refers to the Jakarta branch of the **Indonesian Journalists Association (Persatuan Wartawan Indonesia or PWI)**, the oldest and largest journalists’ organization in Indonesia. Established in 1946, PWI played a key role in uniting journalists during Indonesia’s independence era, and PWI Jaya specifically serves media professionals in Jakarta, promoting press freedom, ethics, and professional development. The organization also engages in advocacy and training to uphold journalistic standards in the capital region.

National Hero Umar Ismail

“National Hero Umar Ismail” refers to Umar Ismail (1921–1949), an Indonesian revolutionary and national hero who fought against Dutch colonial rule. He played a key role in the resistance in Aceh and was known for his leadership in guerrilla warfare. After his death, he was honored as a national hero for his contributions to Indonesia’s independence.