Minister of Creative Economy (Menekraf) Teuku Riefky Harsya believes that international film productions shooting on location in Indonesia generate a significant multiplier effect for the national economy. Beyond stimulating local economies, such collaborations unlock new investment opportunities within the domestic film subsector.
According to Riefky, global-scale film productions do not merely absorb local labor; they directly invigorate supporting industries such as hospitality, culinary services, transportation, logistics, micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and tourism destinations.
“We want Indonesian culture, nature, production crews, and talent to collaborate even further. These collaborations not only promote Indonesia but also facilitate the transfer of knowledge and technology, among many other benefits that support the Indonesian film industry as our diplomatic bridge to the international community,” Teuku Riefky stated in an official release in Jakarta on Monday (Aug 10, 2026).
The Minister made these remarks while conducting an on-site visit to the production location of the international film titled "Happy Eyes" at Taman Safari Indonesia in Cisarua, Bogor. The film is a collaborative project between French studio Moana Films and Indonesian production house Jungle Run Productions.
The Ministry of Creative Economy emphasized that the positive impact of foreign film productions does not end when shooting wraps. Showcasing Indonesia’s natural beauty and rich culture on global big screens serves as long-term tourism promotion (film-induced tourism) capable of attracting international tourists.
To boost Indonesia's competitiveness as a preferred global filming destination while driving foreign direct investment (FDI), the government is committed to streamlining various technical regulations.
“We continue to collaborate to ease processes, whether related to visas, permits, or the temporary import and re-export of production equipment,” Riefky affirmed.
The film "Happy Eyes" itself underwent approximately 40 days of principal photography in Indonesia, primarily located at Taman Safari Bogor and Tanjung Lesung, Banten. The project engaged around 220 personnel, comprising 40 foreign crew members and 180 local crew members.
Executive Producer of "Happy Eyes", Joe Yaggi, revealed that over 70 percent of the total crew involved were Indonesian creative talents. This strong local involvement serves as proof that the work standards of national creative workers can compete on a global level.
“The French crew really enjoyed working with our local crew. They were very impressed. I hope more films like this come to Indonesia because our crew has proven they can work at an international standard,” Joe said.
With an abundance of biodiversity, stunning natural landscapes, and ready local talent, the government remains optimistic that Indonesia can transform into one of the primary international film production hubs in the Asia-Pacific region.