‘Pavane For An Infant’ Heads To 2026 Oscars

FINAS said the selection of *Pavane for an Infant* as Malaysia’s representative at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars) next year in the Best International Feature Film category reflects the tremendous potential of local cinema, which continues to gain recognition at the international level. Photo/FB

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov 6 (Bernama) — Malaysian feature film *Pavane for an Infant* has been officially selected to represent Malaysia at the 98th Academy Awards (Oscars), scheduled to be held in Los Angeles, United States, next year, in the Best International Feature Film category.

The National Film Development Corporation Malaysia (FINAS), in a statement today, said the selection of the film, directed by Chong Keat Aun and produced by Janji Pictures Sdn Bhd, was made by the FINAS Film Selection Committee (JKPF), comprising experienced and professional members of the film industry.  

According to FINAS, the evaluation was conducted based on the guidelines set by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS).  

“The selection of *Pavane for an Infant* as Malaysia’s representative reflects the tremendous potential of local cinema, which continues to gain recognition at the international level.  

“FINAS remains committed to empowering local talents and productions to excel on the global stage,” the statement said.  

*Pavane for an Infant* has received multiple international recognitions, including the Youth Jury Award at the 39th Fribourg International Film Festival 2025 and the Golden Silk Road Award (Best Screenplay) at the 12th Silk Road International Film Festival.  

In addition, the film has been screened and competed in several prestigious global festivals, among them the 49th Hong Kong International Film Festival (2025), 44th Istanbul International Film Festival (2025), 24th New York Asian Film Festival (2025), Taipei Golden Horse Film Festival (2024) and the 37th Tokyo International Film Festival (2024) – World Premiere, Asian Future Competition. 

— BERNAMA