KUALA LUMPUR INTERNATIONAL FILM AWARDS (KLIFA)
Where Stories Illuminate Futures

The Kuala Lumpur International Film Awards (KLIFA) is a distinguished cultural initiative hosted in the heart of Malaysia, celebrating excellence in global film and television. Established by South East Asia Pictures Ltd., KLIFA honors creative achievement while fostering cross-cultural exchange through the universal language of cinema.

A Platform for Cultural Dialogue
Held biennially, KLIFA leverages the power of images to connect civilizations, spark meaningful conversations, and promote mutual understanding—advancing a vision of a more inclusive and imaginative world.

Empowering the Next Generation
One of KLIFA’s core missions is to nurture emerging voices. Through its film labs, workshops, and international showcases, KLIFA actively supports young filmmakers and creative talents, helping them break boundaries and take their stories to the world.

INSPIRATION IN EVERY FRAME
Each edition hosts the KLIFA Global Film Forum, bringing together renowned directors, producers, thought leaders, and cultural icons. This exchange of ideas ignites inspiration, elevates artistic discourse, and connects local innovation with international influence.

A NIGHT OF CELEBRATION, A WORLD OF POSSIBILITIES
The grand KLIFA Awards Gala is the crown jewel of the event—where cinematic brilliance is honored, dreams are realized, and the art of storytelling is celebrated on a global stage.

KUALA LUMPUR – THE CROSSROADS OF CULTURE
From the historic richness of its heritage to its vibrant, forward-looking creative industry, Kuala Lumpur stands as a beacon of diversity and hospitality. Here, the world of film finds a home—and filmmakers find a stage to shine.
KLIFA – Bridging Cultures, Building Futures.

Awards & Prizes

KLIFA comprises the following categories:
1. Film Category (9 Awards):
o Best Feature Film
o Best Director
o Best Screenplay
o Best Actor in a Leading Role
o Best Actress in a Leading Role
o Best Actor in a Supporting Role
o Best Actress in a Supporting Role
o Best Cinematography
o Best Original Song

2. TV Drama Category (8 Awards):
o Best TV Drama
o Best Director
o Best Screenplay
o Best Actor in a Leading Role
o Best Actress in a Leading Role
o Best Actor in a Supporting Role
o Best Actress in a Supporting Role
o Best Cinematography

3. Documentary Category (4 Awards):
o Best Documentary
o Best Director
o Best Cinematography
o Best Editing
4. Animation Category (2 Awards):
o Best Animation
o Best Visual Effects
5. Social Impact Category (1 Award):
o Best Social Impact Film
6. Short Film Category (4 Award):
o Best Short Film
o Best Director
o Best Cinematography
o Best Editing
7. KLIFA Legacy Awards (8 Categories):
o Lifetime Achievement Award
o Outstanding Contribution to Global Cinema
o Iconic Filmmaker Award
o Excellence in Cinematic Innovation
o Humanitarian Award
o Global Cultural Ambassador Award
o Tengku Azlan Visionary Award
o Excellence in Cultural Representation

Rules & Terms

How to Enter:
KLIFA is held annually. Eligible entries must have been broadcast, released, or screened between January 1, 2022, and April 30, 2025.
• Registration: Participants must register and submit entries through KLIFA's official website.

Requirements for Participation:
General Requirements:
• The submitter must own the copyright or have legal rights to the film.
• All co-productions must identify one party as the primary applicant.
• Entries must comply with all applicable laws and not infringe on third-party rights.
Technical Specifications:
• Format: MP4 or MOV
• Resolution: 1080p or higher
• Submission via secure online links or storage devices (USB, external drives)
• English subtitles are required for non-English films
Category-Specific Requirements:
1. Film Category:
o Minimum runtime: 70 minutes
o Required materials: Synopsis, stills, director's bio and photo, credits, poster, trailer
2. TV Drama Category:
o Submit at least three episodes (first, middle, and last); full program for TV films
3. Documentary Category:
o Submit full program for single documentaries or three key episodes for series
4. Animation Category:
o Submit full program for single animations or three key episodes for series
5. Social Impact Category:
o Films must focus on themes related to social justice, environmental sustainability, human rights, diversity, equity, and inclusion.
o Provide a brief statement (up to 300 words) on the film’s intended social impact.
6. Television Entertainment Category:
o Performances must be from televised stand-up comedy shows aired within the eligibility period.
o Required materials: Full performance video, synopsis, performer bio, promotional materials (poster, stills), and any supporting clips.

Special Declaration:
• Entries cannot be withdrawn once officially registered without approval from the Executive Committee.
• Any withdrawal causing financial or reputational damage will require compensation to the committee.

Publicity and Promotion:
• Participants must provide trailers or clips for promotional purposes.
• If unavailable, KLIFA reserves the right to use up to 5 minutes of the film for promotion.
• Selected films may be featured in promotional screenings, both on-site and online.
• Films in the Social Impact Category may be showcased in educational institutions, community events, and social campaigns to maximize their outreach.

Honor and Recognition:
• Nominees will be invited to attend KLIFA-related activities and the award ceremony.
• Winners will be announced during the ceremony and awarded a trophy and certificate.
• Social Impact Award winners will receive additional opportunities for global advocacy through KLIFA’s partner organizations and platforms.
• KLIFA Legacy Award recipients will be honoured for their lifetime achievements and contributions to the global film industry, with a special tribute segment during the ceremony.

Notarisation:
• To ensure fairness, an independent notary will oversee the evaluation process.

Final Provisions:
• By participating in KLIFA, entrants agree to these rules and regulations.
• KLIFA's Executive Committee reserves the right to amend and interpret these rules.
• Submission material costs and courier fees will be borne by the entrants.