Indonesian cinema has also made strides on the global stage. Four Indonesian short films were selected for La Semaine de la Critique at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival—a milestone hailed as signaling Indonesia’s shift from occasional participant to “global cinematic powerhouse”. Indonesian Film Board Chairperson Fauzan Zidni emphasized that “this presence is not just about representation, but a confirmation that the work of the nation’s children has transcended geographical boundaries and speaks in the universal language of cinema”.
Perhaps most strikingly, a new all-Indonesian girl group called has captured international attention. Based in Los Angeles and signed to 88rising, the four-member group—Esther, Baila, Christy, and Shaz—debuted in May 2025. Their music video for “Work” racked up over 9.5 million Spotify streams in two months, and their sound incorporates traditional instruments like Balinese cymbals ( ceng-ceng ), gamelan, and bamboo flutes, alongside subtle nods to batik in their costumes. “We went for something that sounds a little familiar to people, but also mixing Indonesian elements into it,” said main vocalist Esther. “It’s a strategic way to try to catch on to the mainstream audience, while also maintaining our individualism as Indonesians through our music”.
Indonesian cinema has also made strides on the global stage. Four Indonesian short films were selected for La Semaine de la Critique at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival—a milestone hailed as signaling Indonesia’s shift from occasional participant to “global cinematic powerhouse”. Indonesian Film Board Chairperson Fauzan Zidni emphasized that “this presence is not just about representation, but a confirmation that the work of the nation’s children has transcended geographical boundaries and speaks in the universal language of cinema”.
Perhaps most strikingly, a new all-Indonesian girl group called has captured international attention. Based in Los Angeles and signed to 88rising, the four-member group—Esther, Baila, Christy, and Shaz—debuted in May 2025. Their music video for “Work” racked up over 9.5 million Spotify streams in two months, and their sound incorporates traditional instruments like Balinese cymbals ( ceng-ceng ), gamelan, and bamboo flutes, alongside subtle nods to batik in their costumes. “We went for something that sounds a little familiar to people, but also mixing Indonesian elements into it,” said main vocalist Esther. “It’s a strategic way to try to catch on to the mainstream audience, while also maintaining our individualism as Indonesians through our music”.