JAKARTA - Vice President Gibran Rakabuming Raka recently hailed the success of the animated film "Jumbo" as a significant milestone for Indonesia's animation industry. The film, directed by Ryan Adriandhy, has attracted over 4 million viewers and is set to be screened in 17 countries across Asia and Europe.
During a special viewing event held on April 11, 2025, Gibran invited 139 orphans from various orphanages to enjoy the film, which he described as a source of educational entertainment for the younger generation. The children came from four orphanages: Panti Balita Tunas Bangsa, Panti Sosial Asuhan Anak Putra Utama Tiga, Panti Asuhan Rumah Piatu Muslimin, and Panti Putra Utama 2 Plumpang.
Gibran expressed pride in the film's achievements, stating, "This marks a new era for the Indonesian animation industry." He emphasized that this success demonstrates the capabilities of Indonesia's youth on the global stage, encouraging them to dream big and not shy away from expressing themselves.
In addition to praising "Jumbo," Gibran also highlighted the recent success of the U-17 national football team, which qualified for the U-17 World Cup for the first time. He noted that the younger generation plays a crucial role in shaping the nation's future, asserting, "We are not just a demographic bonus; we are the answer to future challenges."
Gibran further elaborated on the importance of collaboration among various sectors, including government, private companies, academia, and civil society, to ensure that opportunities for growth are effectively harnessed. He stated, "We need collaboration, unity, and a culture of constructive competition to create a better Indonesia together."
The film "Jumbo" not only entertains but also carries a profound message. It tells the story of a boy named Don, who, despite being bullied for his size, finds strength within himself and becomes a source of help for others, even those who have hurt him. This narrative promotes themes of courage, self-acceptance, and the power of friendship.
Since its release on March 31, 2025, "Jumbo" has received an overwhelmingly positive response from audiences, with over 5 million viewers flocking to theaters. The film's soundtrack, "Selalu Ada di Nadimu," has also gained immense popularity, amassing over 5 million streams online.
The song, composed by the music group Laleilmanino, was written starting in 2021, shortly before the first anniversary of the passing of Nino's father, one of the group's members. Nino Kayam, who penned the lyrics, shared that one of the greatest challenges was crafting the lyrics in an acrostic format, a method where the first letters of each line spell out a word or message.
Nino reflected on the emotional journey of writing the song, hoping it would resonate with listeners and serve as a message from parents to their children. He stated, "I hope this song can connect listeners with their inner child in a special place in their hearts."
He also noted that the lyrics convey a message of support and resilience, emphasizing that no one is alone in their struggles. The film "Jumbo" aligns with this theme, showcasing the importance of friendship and the courage to face life's challenges.
As "Jumbo" continues to captivate audiences, the collaboration between the film and its soundtrack illustrates the synergy of storytelling and music in delivering impactful messages. Gibran's endorsement of the film and its themes reinforces the notion that the younger generation is not only a source of hope but also a driving force in Indonesia's cultural and artistic landscape.
In conclusion, the success of "Jumbo" and its accompanying soundtrack reflects a growing recognition of the potential within Indonesia's creative industries. As Gibran aptly stated, the key to thriving in today's competitive world lies in the ability to learn, adapt, and seize opportunities swiftly. The achievements of both the film and its creators serve as a testament to the bright future that awaits Indonesia's youth in the realms of animation and beyond.
