IMLF 2025: A Global Literary Stage from the Land of Minangkabau - Indonesia

By Leni Marlina

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Padang, Indonesia, Suara Anak Negeri (SAN: suaraanaknegerinews.com) – The International Minangkabau Literacy Festival (IMLF) 2025, the most prominent literary and literacy event in West Sumatra, is set to take place from May 8–12. More than just a festival, IMLF has become a cultural bridge connecting Minangkabau to the world, bringing together hundreds of writers, artists, and intellectuals from various countries.

In a coordination meeting with regional government offices (OPD), city officials, and key stakeholders, Pj. Secretary of West Sumatra Province, Yozarwardi, U.P., S.Hut., M.Si, emphasized that this festival is a strategic moment to elevate West Sumatra onto the international stage.

The key person responsible from the West Sumatra Regional Secretary (Sekda) for organizing IMLF 2025 is Acting Regional Secretary (Pj. Sekda) of West Sumatra, Yozarwardi, U.P., S.Hut., M.Si. As the Acting Regional Secretary, he plays a strategic role in ensuring smooth coordination between various government agencies, literary communities, and other relevant stakeholders. During the preparatory meeting, he emphasized the significance of this festival as a platform to promote culture, literacy, and the international image of West Sumatra.

“West Sumatra is the birthplace of great thinkers—Muhammad Hatta, Buya Hamka, Tan Malaka. IMLF is our golden opportunity to introduce the literary and cultural wealth of Minangkabau to the world. The presence of writers and intellectuals from various countries will strengthen West Sumatra’s position as a global literacy hub,” said Yozarwardi.

As a writer himself, Yozarwardi understands that this festival is not just about gathering literary figures but also about creating a lasting impression on international guests. He stressed the importance of warm and professional hospitality, from airport reception to event management.

From Minangkabau to the World: IMLF’s Transformation in Three Years

Since its inception in 2023, IMLF has rapidly evolved into an influential literary and intellectual forum. The first festival welcomed delegations from 12 countries, which grew to 17 countries the following year. By 2025, the target is 20 countries, with over 200 international participants.

Sastri Bakry, Chairperson of IMLF and SatuPena Sumbar, highlighted that the festival’s growth demonstrates Minangkabau’s exceptional appeal in the world of literacy and culture.

“IMLF is not just a festival; it is a global literacy movement. We aim to make Minangkabau a home for thinkers and creators—a place where great ideas converge and inspire the world,” said Sastri Bakry.

The festival features a rich lineup of activities, including:

* Writers’ and Scholars’ Forum – A platform for writers, researchers, and cultural leaders to discuss global literacy trends.
* Cultural Orations and Panel Discussions – Featuring 30 keynote speakers on the future of literacy, arts, and technology.
* Poetry Readings and Artistic Performances – A fusion of Minangkabau’s cultural heritage with artistic expressions from around the world.
* Book Exhibitions and Launches – Showcasing Indonesian literature to the global market.
* Cultural Bazaar and Creative MSMEs Showcase – Promoting Minangkabau’s crafts, cuisine, and heritage to an international audience.

“When the world recognizes Minangkabau not just through the legend of Malin Kundang but through literary works that resonate globally, we know we have succeeded,” added Sastri Bakry as the chairperson of IMLF 2025 as well as the chairperson of Indonesia Writers of Satu Pena Branch West Sumatra.

Literacy as Diplomacy: The Role of IMLF for Indonesia and the World

In today’s interconnected world, literacy is more than just reading and writing; it is a powerful tool for diplomacy. IMLF places Indonesia on the global literary map, asserting that this nation possesses a rich and continuously evolving literary tradition.

Armaidi Tanjung, Secretary of SatuPena Sumbar, emphasized that literacy serves as a bridge between civilizations.

“When a writer tells the story of their homeland, they are shaping global understanding of that place. IMLF is part of Indonesia’s effort to introduce itself to the world through literature and culture,” he stated.

For the Minangkabau community, IMLF is an opportunity to preserve and develop the intellectual tradition that has long been part of their identity. The festival provides a platform for local writers and artists to engage with the global literary scene, opening doors for collaboration while introducing the Minangkabau philosophy of “alam takambang jadi guru” (nature as the ultimate teacher) to the world.

For Indonesia, IMLF is proof that literacy can serve as a form of cultural diplomacy. By making literature a medium for exchanging ideas, Indonesia strengthens its position as a nation rich in intellectual and artistic heritage.

For the global community, IMLF offers a fresh perspective on Indonesia—not just as a country known for its natural beauty but also for its intellectual depth, creativity, and commitment to literacy.

“This festival is a legacy that will continue to grow. What we initiate today will become part of global literary history in the future,” concluded Yozarwardi.

With three months remaining before IMLF 2025, anticipation continues to build. West Sumatra is ready not only to welcome guests but also to inspire the world.

Why IMLF Matters for the Future

* Elevating Minangkabau onto the Global Stage – The festival is not just a local event but a global platform for Minangkabau literature and culture.
* Strengthening Indonesia’s Cultural Diplomacy – Literacy as a tool to introduce Indonesia to the world.
* Boosting the Creative Economy – Through book exhibitions, MSME showcases, and international artistic collaborations.
* Empowering the Younger Generation – Inspiring young Indonesian writers and artists to participate in the global literary scene.
* Uniting Civilizations Through Literature – A celebration of storytelling that brings cultures together from across the globe.

As BJ Habibie once said, “Success belongs to those who keep striving and believing.” IMLF is a testament to the power of literacy in transcending borders, connecting people, and shaping a better future through words.

Minangkabau has produced great thinkers. Now, through IMLF, it once again speaks to the world.

[LM, Satu Pena, Editorial Board of SAN, assisted by AI]
Image Source: Sastri Bakry’s Documentation via LM]