From Takengon for Aceh Screens: Unimal Filmmakers Win at the 2026 Aceh Film Camp |
The cool air of Takengon, Central Aceh, Indonesia, enveloped the Temas River Park area in mid-February 2026. Amidst the thin mountain mist and the sound of flowing rivers, dozens of young people gathered not for a vacation, but for one purpose: telling stories through film.
For three days, February 13–15, 2026, the natural area in Central Aceh transformed into a learning space and creative laboratory for the 2026 Aceh Film Camp with the theme First Action. Cameras, tripods, long discussions late into the night, and wild ideas about youth life were an inseparable part of the event.
The event, organized by Mata Sapi Film with the support of the Ministry of Culture, was more than just a technical training ground for filmmaking. It served as a meeting place for ideas—a place where Aceh's film community, students, and creative activists could exchange experiences and test their courage to take their first steps in creating their own works.
"The first step is always the most difficult, but also the most decisive," said Sirajul Munir, Director of the 2026 Aceh Film Camp, when opening the event. He said the theme, "First Action," was chosen to symbolize the courage of the younger generation to stop waiting and start creating.
Three Days That Changed Many Things
From the first day, participants were immediately immersed in a series of intensive activities: film discussions, production workshops, shooting practices, and the time-pressed editing process. The natural beauty of Central Aceh served not only as a backdrop for the activities but also as a source of visual inspiration, enriching the participants' imaginations.
In corners of Temas River Park, small groups were seen seriously designing scenes. Some debated camera angles, others repeated dialogue over and over, and still others silently gazed at the landscape, searching for meaning to translate onto the screen.
Among the participants, the delegation from Malikussaleh University (Unimal) received the main award for the hard work and perseverance of the young filmmakers. Without much attention, they prepared a film titled "Nongkrong," a simple story about the social dynamics of young people—about meeting spaces, casual conversations, and the often-unseen anxieties.
The Power of Simplicity
On the final night of the event, the atmosphere became tense. Participants awaited the results of the jury's assessment, consisting of Hendry Noerman, Sirajul Munir, and Andy Hutagalung.
When Malikussaleh University was announced as the winner of Best Film, applause erupted. "Nongkrong" was considered to have presented a story that resonated with the realities of the younger generation, with a consistent visual approach and a social message conveyed in a subtle yet powerful way.
According to Hendry Noerman, the film's strength lies in its ability to create a natural atmosphere without being overly patronizing. Meanwhile, Andy Hutagalung considered team cohesion a crucial factor in the film's success.
This film was directed by Ahmad Al Bastin and a team consisting of Chandra Aditya Sanjaya, M. Radja Abizar, Rafli Al Akbar, Randi Ilhan, Nazela Sopia, and Angga Hardiansyah Harahap—a group of young people who prove that collaboration can produce a complete work.
Beyond of Awards
For many participants, the Aceh Film Camp was more than just a competition. It was a collective experience: learning to work under time pressure, understanding visual language, and finding the courage to voice their own perspectives.
The natural beauty of Central Aceh surrounding the event seemed to remind them that stories can emerge from anywhere—from simple conversations, short trips, or even the often-overlooked habit of "hanging out."
When the event ended, what remained wasn't just a trophy or certificate, but new networks, fresh ideas, and the belief that Acehnese cinema has a future.
It is hoped that the spirit of "First Action" will not stop at Temas River Park. It serves as an invitation for Aceh's young generation to keep going, pick up a camera, and tell the world from their own perspective.
Because every great journey—including the journey of a film industry—always starts from one first step.[]
