Wujud claims top prize at Borneo Documentary Awards

KUCHING, Malaysia (MNTV) — Brunei marked a milestone in its creative landscape with Wujud (Existence) winning the Best Borneo Feature Documentary at the inaugural Borneo Documentary Awards held in conjunction with the 7th Asean International Film Festival and Awards (AIFFA) 2025 in Kuching, Malaysia.

Directed by Syafi Halim and co-directed by Rui Oliveira Lopes, the film was the only Bruneian nominee, reports The Star.

For its first Borneo Documentary Awards, AIFFA received 34 submissions. The Borneo region comprises parts of Malaysia and Indonesia, as well as Brunei. 

Awards coordinator Rashid Salleh said the awards were established to “give a platform to stories from Borneo, told by Borneans themselves – to highlight authentic voices, local experiences and the richness of our shared heritage”. 

Produced by New Wave Films, Wujud explores Bruneian identity beyond stereotypes, challenging the belief that Bruneians are defined solely by wealth.

During his acceptance speech, director Syafi said, “Honestly, I didn’t expect that. All the other films nominated looked amazing. It’s called Wujud because if I asked you, ‘What are Bruneian people like?’ most would simply say we’re rich – and that’s it.

“But we’re not just that. We have our struggles, our stories and our history. Wujud is a way of saying we ‘exist,’ and we are here.”

He expressed hope for greater regional collaboration, adding, “I hope one day there will be more Bruneian films submitted to AIFFA, and more partnerships with Asean filmmakers – especially our fellow Bornean storytellers.”