JAKARTA: Bali governor Wayan Koster urged students to prioritise watching local films and cartoons instead of the Malaysian-made show “Upin & Ipin”, local media reported.
He conveyed this in a speech at the award ceremony of the film essay contest, held at the hall of the Bali Provincial Legislative Council recently.
“Young people usually enjoy watching, what animation comes from Malaysia, right? Yes, ‘Upin & Ipin’. Let’s not watch that anymore.
“It’s better to support films that focus on our traditions and culture,” he said, referring to the hit animated series with educational and cultural aspects popular in Malaysia and much of Southeast Asia.
Wayan also stressed on the importance of safeguarding Bali’s culture despite technological advancements and modernisation.
Located east of Java and west of Lombok, Bali has a diverse population with a cultural identity closely linked to Hindu beliefs.