Through Poetry Dhikr Night, Minister Fadli Zon Emphasizes the Power of Literature as Pillar of Nation

DEPOK - Minister of Culture Fadli Zon emphasized that literature, especially poetry, is a vital pillar of national civilization. He made this statement at the Poetry Dhikr Night event held at the Makara Art Center Auditorium, University of Indonesia, on Saturday, August 23.

"Literature portrays the journey of this nation, from Old Poets, New Poets, Balai Pustaka, the Generation of '45 to the Generation of '66. Poetry is always present, giving voice to the times," said Minister of Culture Fadli Zon in an official statement on August 24.

The poetry dhikr reminded us how literature and struggle go hand in hand to unite society. "This nation stands strong because of the cultural richness that unites and binds us," he emphasized.

The event, initiated by Teater Sastra and UI Alumni Lintas Generasi, carried the theme "Dripping Water into the Ocean of Civilization." Artistic Director, Yudi Soenarto, emphasized the importance of making Indonesia more advanced and brilliant through literature. Meanwhile, UI Vice Rector I Mahmud Subandriyo described Dzikir Puisi as a space for collective reflection: reminding the nation to rely on divine power while reaffirming the role of literature.

"Malam Dzikir Puisi" featured poetry readings from alumni across generations, from the 1970s to the present, including Sayuti Asyathrie, Linda Djalil, Yahya Andisaputra, Neno Warisman, Indrajaya Piliang, and Yudi Soenarto. Musical poetry performances were also performed by the groups Mawar Merah Putih Indonesia, Swara SeadaNya, D'Yello, and Ahmad Munjid, along with UI students.

Minister of Culture Fadli himself recited a poem titled "Untukmu Bung Tomo," which he wrote in 1985, at the age of 14. He dedicated the work as a tribute to Bung Tomo, a prominent independence fighter.

Finally, Minister Fadli stated that the Ministry of Culture is strengthening the national literary ecosystem and encouraging the internationalization of Indonesian literary works. "Our literature must be more visible and appreciated by the world. We must revitalize the literary ecosystem, including poetry," he said.