Anthology “Simbiosis” Set to Launch at International Minangkabau Literacy Festival (IMLF-3) in Padang, West Sumatra: Weaving Poetry, Bridging Civilizations
By Leni Marlina
(The Editorial Team of Suaraanaknegerinews.com)
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In today’s fast-paced digital era, where notifications constantly chime and information vanishes in an instant, does poetry still have a place? Is there still room for words penned with love and deep contemplation?
The answer is: Yes!
The “Simbiosis” anthology stands as proof that poetry is not merely a collection of words but a bridge between civilizations. More than just an anthology, this book serves as a reflection of life, an inner journey, and a cross-cultural dialogue. Featuring 124 poems from 64 poets from Malaysia and Indonesia, “Simbiosis” presents stories of life, love, history, social reflections, and the search for meaning.
Curated with meticulous care by two literary masters, Dato’ Hashim Yaacob and Harlym Yeo, “Simbiosis” unites diverse perspectives in harmony. Just like a thriving ecosystem, this anthology becomes a space where varied experiences and thoughts intertwine, creating a symbiosis that enriches the treasury of Malay literature.
IMLF-3: Celebrating Nusantara Literature on the Global Stage
The launch of “Simbiosis” is not just a ceremonial event. The book will be introduced on the prestigious stage of the International Minangkabau Literacy Festival (IMLF-3), scheduled to take place in Padang, West Sumatra, from May 8–12, 2025. This grand event is spearheaded by Sastri Bakry, Chairperson of Perkumpulan Penulis Satu Pena Sumatera Barat, who also successfully led IMLF-1 and IMLF-2.
IMLF has evolved into an essential international literary festival, serving as a vital forum for writers, scholars, and literature enthusiasts from around the world. Initiated by Perkumpulan Penulis Satu Pena Sumatera Barat and supported by regional governments and global partners, the festival aims to introduce Minangkabau literature, art, and culture to the international stage.
This year, IMLF-3 will welcome delegations from 21 countries, including:
Malaysia, Australia, Bangladesh, China, Croatia, Cyprus, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Kurdistan, New Zealand, Russia, Spain, Switzerland, Slovenia, Tunisia, the United Kingdom, Uzbekistan, and Vietnam.
The festival offers a diverse range of engaging programs, from panel discussions, book launches, and literary workshops to poetry readings and awards honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to the literary world.
One of the most anticipated sessions is the discussion on the “Simbiosis” anthology, featuring Dato’ Hashim Yaacob (Malaysian Literary Figure and Scientist) and Dr. Saunir Saun (Indonesian Prolific Poet and Academic) as keynote speakers, with Harlym Yeo (Malaysia) as the moderator. This session will delve deeper into the aesthetic and philosophical foundations of the anthology, as well as the role of poetry in the modern literary landscape of the Nusantara region.
“Simbiosis”: Poetry as a Bridge Between Civilizations
Beyond being a book, “Simbiosis” is a symbol of cross-cultural collaboration. It embodies the spirit of brotherhood, respect for tradition, and the aspiration for a stronger, more globally recognized Malay literary heritage.
Published by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Malaysia, the book will be available starting in May 2025, priced at RM23 per copy. More than just a collection, “Simbiosis” is expected to inspire the younger generation to continue writing and preserving poetry as an integral part of life.
In his foreword, Malaysian National Laureate Dato’ Rahman Shaari writes:
“I consider the compilation and publication of this book an extraordinary step in enriching Malay-language poetry.”
For him, “Simbiosis” is not just a book—it is a legacy that will flow and evolve, transcending time.
Why Is Poetry Still Relevant?
In a world that grows busier and more fragmented, poetry provides a space for reflection. It teaches us to pause, read with our hearts, and find meaning in every word.
Poetry is not merely a sequence of beautiful words. It possesses the power to touch hearts, evoke emotions, and rekindle human sensitivity toward life. Amidst a world full of differences, poetry serves as a universal language that unites minds and souls.
And this is precisely what “Simbiosis” offers—an anthology that proves words still hold the power to connect people across geographical, linguistic, and ideological boundaries.
Celebrating Poetry, Preserving the Essence of Life
When a poetry book is born, it is more than just a compilation of verses—it is a cultural heritage that reflects the spirit of its time.
With the launch of “Simbiosis” at IMLF-3, the literary world celebrates more than just a book—it reaffirms the commitment that literature must continue to live, grow, and thrive.
If you are a poetry enthusiast, a writer seeking inspiration, or simply someone who wishes to rediscover the magic of words, “Simbiosis” is a book you must not miss.
For as long as people write and read, as long as there are those who listen to the eternal echoes of verses, poetry will never die.
Join us at the launch of “Simbiosis” at IMLF-3, and let us celebrate literature that unites us all.
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[LM, Assisted by AI, Editorial Team of Suaraanaknegerinews.com]
(Images and Original Information Sources: Harlym Yeo; Leni M., Satu Pena Sumbar – IMLF-3)
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* To read the Indonesian version of the news above, please click the official link below:
* For updates on the preparation and progress of IMLF-3, the readers can visit the following official links:
1.https://suaraanaknegerinews.com/imlf-iii-2025-persiapan-festival-literasi-minangkabau-untuk-dunia-literasi-sastra-seni-dan-budaya-nusantara-menuju-panggung-global/
2.https://suaraanaknegerinews.com/imlf-iii-2025-minangkabaus-literacy-in-languanges-literature-arts-cultural-and-creative-economic-festival-stepping-onto-the-global-stage/
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