KBRN, Jakarta: The Ubud Writers and Readers Festival (UWRF) 2025 has presented a lifetime achievement award to renowned Indonesian poet and literary figure Taufiq Ismail, recognizing his pivotal role in shaping Indonesian literature.

“Our mission is not only to identify and promote emerging authors, but also to honor those who have created a lasting legacy in Indonesia,” said UWRF Co-Founder and Director Janet DeNeefe at a press conference in Jakarta on Wednesday, October 1, 2025, as reported by antaranews.com.

Janet explained that the decision to honor Taufiq was made after extensive deliberation. The award is reserved for individuals deemed to have made a significant impact on younger generations.

Taufiq was selected for his contributions as the founder of the monthly literary magazine Horison and for inspiring future writers through his program, "Students Ask, Writers Answer."

Now aged 90, Taufiq expressed deep gratitude and surprise upon receiving the award.

“I extend my heartfelt thanks. May UWRF continue to grow and thrive. This is truly valuable for advancing literacy in our country,” he said.

During the event, Taufiq, who once taught at Bogor Agricultural Institute (IPB), also recited a poem he wrote in 2006 titled Merindukan Sebuah Dunia (Longing for a World).

Beyond his reputation as a poet, Taufiq is recognized as a leading figure in post-Sukarno Indonesian literature and a pioneer of the “Generation of ’66.” He also co-founded the Jakarta Arts Council (DKJ), Taman Ismail Marzuki (TIM), and the Jakarta Arts Education Institute (LPKJ).

The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival will take place from October 29 to November 2, 2025, bringing together prominent writers, actors, journalists, poets, and thinkers from around the world. This year’s theme is Aham Brahmasmi — I Am the Universe.

The Sanskrit phrase, drawn from the Brihadaranyaka Upanishad, reflects ancient Hindu philosophy. Translated as “I am the Universe,” it affirms the unity between the human self and the cosmos, recognizing that every individual holds the same creative potential as the universe itself. ***