Indonesia to Showcase Translated Classics at Abu Dhabi Book Fair

RRI.CO.ID, Jakarta - Six Indonesian literary classics, newly translated into English, are set to take center stage at the upcoming Abu Dhabi International Book Fair 2026 as part of a major state-backed diplomatic push to elevate the nation's literary heritage globally.

The initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Culture, leverages Indonesia's prestigious status as the official Guest of Honor at this year's international book fair. The six works were translated through the National Talent Management's Literary Translation Laboratory, a strategic incubator aimed at addressing the long-standing shortage of translated Indonesian literature abroad.

Speaking to journalists at the Ministry of Education, Primary and Secondary Education building in South Jakarta, Minister of Culture, Fadli Zon emphasized the exceptional value of the nation's literary canon.

“We will bring these Indonesian classics in English to the International Book [Fair] in Abu Dhabi at the end of 2026. Our literature is extraordinary; they are part of the objects of cultural advancement,” Fadli said on Thursday, July 2, 2026.

The minister underscored that publishing these translations serves as a tactical bridge to expand the global footprint of national literature while cementing Indonesia’s cultural diplomacy.

To ensure long-term sustainability, the ministry is using the Literary Translation Laboratory to nurture a new generation of young translators and literary promoters.

“This is an important part of that ecosystem. Supporting the work of writers at international festivals. As well as providing a translation funding program, TFP, for foreign publishers who purchase the rights to Indonesian literary works,” Fadli added.

Special Staff to the Minister of Culture for Cultural Diplomacy and International Relations, Annisa Rengganis, noted that fortifying the literary ecosystem is a legal mandate. She explained that translating historical classics is just one cog in a larger institutional machine designed to revitalize Indonesian letters.

According to Annisa, this holistic ecosystem-building includes supporting local grassroots communities, backing literary festivals, and training specialized promoters to pitch Indonesian stories abroad, all culminating in the high-profile showcase in the United Arab Emirates.

“Other literary ecosystem strengthening starts from empowering communities and literary festivals, translation labs, and Indonesian literary promoters. This year, it is a matter of pride that we have been trusted to be the guest of honor at the Abu Dhabi International Book Fair,” Annisa said. (Naura Sofia-EN)