(From fourth right) Latypov, Maszlee, Anfaal and Mastura posing with models wearing traditional Tatar costumes at the opening of the Russian Kazan International Muslim Film Festival in Raja Tun Uda Library, Shah Alam.
MALAYSIANS had the chance to learn about Tatar culture and their Islamic heritage at the Russian Kazan International Muslim Film Festival. Kazan is the capital of Tatarstan in Russia.
The three-day event took place at the Raja Tun Uda Library in Shah Alam, Selangor.
It was jointly organised by Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) and International Institute of Advanced Islamic Studies (IAIS).
The festival, which was free to the public, featured five films, including an animation and two documentaries.
It was held to recognise and showcase films that promote human, spiritual and moral values.
The festival also aimed to challenge stereotypes and foster a more inclusive society.
Present at the event were Tatarstan Culture Minister Irada Ayupova Khafizyanovna, Russian ambassador Naiyl Latypov, Selangor women, family empowerment, welfare and care economy committee chairman Anfaal Saari, IAIS chairman Dr Maszlee Malik and PPAS director Datin Paduka Mastura Muhamad.
In his speech at the opening ceremony, Maszlee said the idea of the festival came about during a conversation with Latypov.
“In addition to strengthening cultural diplomacy between Malaysia and Russia, we hope that this will serve as a bridge to develop tourism opportunities between the two countries,” he said.
Anfaal hoped for an exchange of ideas and concepts during the event.
“Through this festival, our local film producers can meet Russian filmmakers and vice-versa.
Ismagilova (right) explaining her work to Anfaal (second from right) and Khafizyanovna (left).
“Other than being an engine for the economy, the film industry can also showcase values of tolerance, diversity and creativity,” she said.
In addition to film screenings, there was an exhibition featuring calligraphy, architecture and traditional Tatar costumes.
One of the artists was Gulnaz Ismagilova, whose work has been exhibited in Turkiye, Algeria and India.
A fashion show also took place at the opening ceremony, with staff from the Russian Embassy also modelling Tatar costumes.
One of the male models was Kazan Museum of Islamic Culture head Ilnur Nizamiew who complemented his outfit with a walking stick.
After the speeches, guests were shown to the library auditorium to watch a documentary directed by Ainaz Mukhametzyanov titled Ibn Fadlan, depicting the life of an Arabian diplomat.
