Kemenbud Launches 90 Years Of Taufiq Ismail, Strengthens National Literature Ecosystem

JAKARTA, 'Stratra' has never retired. That's the message from the 12th commemoration of Indonesian Literature Day held by the Ministry of Culture at the Presidential Insan Plaza, Jakarta, Wednesday, June 25. This event also became the moment of the launch of six volumes of Taufiq Ismail's 90 Year book, recalling the long track of one of the Indonesian literary maestros.

Minister of Culture Fadli Zon said the theme of activities Flooding to Earth, Flying to the Sky was inspired by the title of Taufiq's anthology. According to him, literature must rely on tradition, but also dare to penetrate the boundaries. Sastra is a mirror and a driving force for change. It captures life, and encourages us to continue to dream and create," said Fadli.

He emphasized the government's commitment to building a sustainable literary ecosystem. The ministry is now developing the Laboratory of Translations and Promotors of Literature, strengthening festivals and communities in the regions, and encouraging Indonesian literary works to be translated into various foreign languages. We cannot wait. Indonesian literature must be worldwide," he said.

The launch of the book '90 Years of Taufiq Ismail' became the culmination of appreciation for the poets who crossed the three times. Taufiq is a witness and perpetrator of various important national events. He also founded the legendary literary magazine Horison in 1966 with Mochtar Lubis and PK Ojong.

Taufiq is known to have built a Poemite House in Aie Angek, West Sumatra. "He did not stand in an ivory tower. He lived and worked in the community," said Fadli. His dedication proves that literature does not belong to the elite, but belongs to all.

The event was enlivened by national figures who read the works of Taufiq. Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim appeared in the video reading "With Poems, Aku". Ary Ginanjar performed Kupu-Kupu in the book. Nasaruddin Umar, Abdul Mu'ti, and Fadli himself read the poem by the maestro.

Sastrawan Jose Rizal Manua read Sajak Anak Muda Serba Bercepat. Taufiq Ismail also appeared to read Nashah-Nashah Kecil Orang Tua pada Anaknya Departure Masur which is also displayed in Arab, Turkish, and English versions.

A number of figures were present, including Anies Baswedan, Fahri Hamzah, Jaya Suprana, Ebiet G. Ade, Putu Wijaya, Asma Nadia, to officials from the Ministry of Culture.

The closing appearance of Sam Bimbo and Iman Soleh confirmed the message that literature is a unifying and inspiring medium.

"Hopefully new writers will be born who imitate the footsteps of Taufiq Ismail. His works have been translated into various languages. This is proof that Indonesian literature has a place on the world stage," concluded Fadli Zon.