Robert Draws – Literature in motion took center stage at Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM) on December 10, 2024, when renowned Indonesian literary figures, Taufiq Ismail and Putu Wijaya, graced the Pentas Karya Sastra & Literasi (Literary Works & Literacy Stage). The event, organized by the Indonesian Ministry of Education and Culture’s Language Development and Preservation Agency, showcased the vibrant world of Indonesian literature and the power of storytelling. Along with the literary performances, the event also served as an appreciation and accountability forum for literary and literacy communities that received government grants. This fusion of performance and community engagement offered a unique opportunity for the public to experience Indonesian literature in a dynamic and interactive setting.
Taufiq Ismail, one of Indonesia’s most respected poets, delivered a poignant performance at the event, reading his famous poem Nasehat-nasehat Kecil Orang Tua (Little Pieces of Parental Advice). Known for his intellectual depth and poetic mastery, Taufiq Ismail’s reading resonated deeply with the audience, evoking both nostalgia and reflection. His poem, filled with wisdom passed down from generation to generation, touched on themes of life, morality, and the importance of family. The audience, which included both seasoned literary enthusiasts and younger generations, was drawn into the power of his words and the lyrical beauty of his verse.
Taufiq’s presence at the event underscored the ongoing relevance of traditional poetry in contemporary Indonesian society. His work continues to inspire and challenge readers, and his live reading in this setting reminded the audience of the deep cultural roots of Indonesian literature. The poet’s performance added an emotional layer to the evening, illustrating how literature can be both an art form and a powerful vehicle for transmitting values and ideas across generations.
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In addition to Taufiq Ismail, the audience was also treated to a mesmerizing performance by I Gusti Ngurah Putu Wijaya, a multi-talented writer and dramatist. Known for his works across various genres, Putu Wijaya captivated the crowd with his storytelling skills, performing a dramatic reading of his short story Burung Perkutut (The Turtle Dove). His performance highlighted the role of storytelling in literature, as he brought the narrative to life with vibrant expression and rich character portrayal.
Putu Wijaya’s storytelling was a masterclass in the art of oral traditions, where words transcend the page and transform into living, breathing experiences. His delivery was filled with theatrical flair, and he skillfully engaged the audience, taking them on a journey through the narrative. The story itself, rich with cultural themes and human emotions, further emphasized the power of literature to connect people, evoke empathy, and reflect society’s values.
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The Pentas Karya Sastra & Literasi was more than just a performance; it was also a celebration of the literary and literacy communities that have made significant contributions to Indonesia’s cultural landscape. The event coincided with a special moment for those communities who had received government grants to further their work. According to Imam Budi Santoso, Head of the Language and Literature Protection Agency, 750 literary and literacy communities had applied for assistance, with a total of 20 billion IDR allocated to support their initiatives.
This support is crucial in fostering the development of both traditional and contemporary literary forms, as well as in encouraging the growth of literacy programs throughout the country. Endang Aminudin Aziz, Head of the Language Development and Preservation Agency, emphasized the importance of these community-driven initiatives, stating that the event also featured a variety of exhibitions and performances by young artists from different regions, further enriching the cultural dialogue within Indonesian society.
In addition to the literary performances, the event also featured a diverse range of art forms, reflecting Indonesia’s rich cultural diversity. Performances included traditional wayang golek (puppet theater) and pupuh (traditional Balinese poetry), offering attendees a taste of Indonesia’s indigenous arts. These performances, while rooted in tradition, also showcased the ways in which literature and cultural practices continue to evolve and thrive in modern times.
The inclusion of these performances underscored the symbiotic relationship between literature and other art forms, demonstrating how storytelling, poetry, and drama are interwoven in the cultural fabric of Indonesia. The lively and colorful exhibitions outside the performance space further illustrated the vibrancy of Indonesia’s artistic communities and their role in preserving and transforming cultural heritage.
The Indonesian government’s role in supporting literary communities was a key theme of the event. With the financial support provided to over 750 communities, the government is playing a pivotal role in sustaining the country’s literary traditions. These initiatives help to ensure that literature remains a vibrant part of Indonesian culture, with opportunities for writers, poets, and artists to continue creating meaningful work for generations to come.
The event at TIM served as a powerful reminder of the importance of supporting local literary and artistic communities. It also highlighted the need for continued investment in cultural infrastructure and education to nurture future generations of Indonesian writers, performers, and cultural leaders. Through initiatives like this, Indonesia is not only preserving its literary heritage but also fostering innovation and creativity in the arts.
This remarkable evening at Taman Ismail Marzuki showcased the richness and diversity of Indonesian literature, while also celebrating the enduring legacy of two of the nation’s most influential literary figures. Taufiq Ismail and Putu Wijaya’s performances were a testament to the power of storytelling and poetry in shaping national identity and connecting people across generations.
