KUCHING: A short film shot entirely at Niah National Park is set to be released on Father's Day this Sunday (June 15).
"Space Between" not only showcases Sarawak's natural beauty but also portrays the relationship between a father and his young daughter as they explore their heritage of harvesting birds' nests in the depths of the Niah Caves.
Produced by 21 Ways Film, a Sarawakian production house, the film is believed to be the first to be shot on location at Niah National Park, a Unesco World Heritage Site.
State Deputy Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Snowdan Lawan said initiatives like this reflected the growing creativity and confidence in Sarawak's film industry, as more filmmakers sought to tell stories rooted in the state's landscapes and traditions.
"I would like to commend the team behind 21 Ways Film for their effort and commitment in producing this film.
"Their work demonstrates the kind of homegrown storytelling that highlights Sarawak's unique identity, culture and talent," he said at the premiere screening of "Space Between" here on Monday.
Snowdan said the film was supported by the ministry's tourism, heritage and creative industry facilitation fund, which was established to encourage growth across the creative, tourism and performing arts sectors.
Looking ahead, he hoped that "Space Between" would be considered for submission to international film festivals.
"This will be a way to further showcase Sarawak's unique stories and landscapes as well as the capabilities of our local creative talents.
"Platforms like these offer opportunities for exposure, growth and connection with the wider world and we fully encourage our filmmakers to be bold in reaching beyond our borders," Snowdan said.
Director Danish Busmah described "Space Between" as a deeply personal story about a father and daughter.
"Behind the film lies something real, our collective desire as Sarawakians to tell stories that come from our heritage and lived experiences," he said.
The 12-minute film features local actors Julai Billie as the father Jon and Darweesha Dasuki as his daughter Sara.
It will be shown on TVS (Channel 122 on Astro, MYTV and Unifi TV) at 5.30pm on June 15.
