Indonesia Promotes Literary Diplomacy Through Classical Translation Program

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Indonesia's Ministry of Culture is stepping up efforts to internationalize Indonesian literature through the translation of classical literary works and the strengthening of the national literary ecosystem. The initiative forms part of the government's cultural diplomacy strategy to make Indonesian literature more widely recognized and accessible to global audiences.

Speaking at the Sasana Sastra: Reading Indonesian Classics event in Jakarta on Thursday, July 2, 2026 Minister of Culture Fadli Zon ,said the government is encouraging the development of young translators and literary promoters as a vital part of the literary ecosystem. The government is also supporting Indonesian writers' participation in international literary festivals and providing the Translation Funding Program (TFP) for foreign publishers that acquire the rights to Indonesian literary works.

"Through the translation of Indonesia's classical literary works, the Ministry of Culture reaffirms its commitment to making literature one of the pillars of cultural advancement as well as an instrument of cultural diplomacy. When people around the world read Indonesian literary works, what they encounter is not merely a book, but the face of Indonesia as a whole," he said.

The Minister's Special Staff for Cultural Diplomacy and International Relations, Annisa Rengganis, said promoting Indonesian literature on the global stage is one of the Ministry's key programs for strengthening the national literary ecosystem. She noted that the launch of translations of six Indonesian literary classics was intentionally held to coincide with National Literature Day as a strategic effort to expand the global reach of Indonesian literature.

"We hope these translated Indonesian literary classics will be available in libraries around the world, cultural institutions abroad, international festivals, international book fairs, and other platforms that help promote Indonesian literature globally," Annisa said.

She explained that the six literary works were selected based on several criteria, including whether they had never been translated into foreign languages, possessed outstanding literary value, and represented diverse genders, regions, and generations. The translation initiative is part of the Ministry's five flagship programs aimed at strengthening Indonesia's literary ecosystem in a sustainable manner.

Annisa added that throughout 2025, the Ministry collaborated with 18 literary festivals, engaged 35 literary communities, and nurtured a new generation of literary translators and promoters through its Literary Translation Laboratory and Literary Promotion Laboratory. This year, Indonesia has also been honored as the Guest of Honor at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair, further expanding the international promotion of Indonesian literature.

"We believe that collaborative efforts among countries, literary communities, and cultural practitioners will enable Indonesia not only to become a host in its own country but also to establish Indonesian literature as an important voice in global conversations," Annisa said.