IMLF 2025: Minangkabau Literacy Strategies on Languages, Literture, Arts and Culture from Indonesia for Global Diplomacy

By Leni Marlina

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SUARA ANAK NEGERI.COM. Padang – In an era of rapid global change, literacy has evolved beyond the basic ability to read and write. It has become a strategic element for promoting cultural identity, fostering global collaboration, and building international networks. Through the third International Minangkabau Literacy Festival (IMLF), West Sumatra (Sumbar) once again demonstrates that literacy can serve as a vital pillar of cultural diplomacy.

Scheduled for May 8–12, 2025, and fully supported by the West Sumatra Provincial Government, IMLF is poised to connect Sumbar with the global stage. Acting Regional Secretary of West Sumatra, Yozarwardi U.P., S.Hut., M.Si., emphasized during a meeting with the DPD SatuPena Sumbar and the IMLF organizing committee at the Governor’s Office on Monday, January 20, 2025, that the festival is a strategic opportunity to showcase Sumbar’s cultural prowess to the world.

“IMLF is not merely a festival; it’s a cultural window to the world. While literacy in language, literature, and arts forms its foundation, tourism and culture also play a significant role here,” Yozarwardi stated.

Literacy as a Key to Cultural Diplomacy

According to UNESCO, literacy is not only a fundamental human right but also an essential tool for empowering individuals and communities. In the context of cultural diplomacy, literacy serves as a powerful medium to communicate cultural messages, values, and identity to a global audience.

IMLF transcends being a mere celebration of literacy; it becomes a stage for Minangkabau cultural diplomacy. “We aim to make IMLF a bridge connecting West Sumatra to the world, reinforcing the narrative that our culture holds global relevance,” said Sastri Bakry, Chair of DPD SatuPena Sumbar.

Tracing IMLF’s Success

Since its inception in 2023, IMLF has become a magnet for writers, literary figures, academics, and artists from various countries. In 2023, the festival attracted delegates from 12 nations. By 2024, this number increased to 17. For 2025, the organizers aim to host delegates from 20 countries, involving more than 200 international participants.

“Each year, we strive to enhance the festival’s quality. We want every participant, local and international, to leave with an unforgettable experience,” Sastri added.

This aligns with Pierre Bourdieu’s Cultural Capital Theory, which highlights that culture is an asset with value in social and economic networks. Through IMLF, Minangkabau creates cultural capital that can be exchanged on a global scale.

IMLF 2025 Programs: Innovation and Collaboration

The third edition of IMLF will feature a range of key activities designed to integrate literacy, arts, and culture:

1. Panel Discussions and Keynote Speeches
Thirty international speakers will address current issues, including digital literacy and the impact of technology on culture. “We aim to spark discussions relevant to contemporary challenges,” Sastri remarked.

Media theorist Marshall McLuhan’s famous quote, “The medium is the message,” resonates here, emphasizing that digital literacy is not just about access to information but also about how technology shapes our understanding of the world.

2. Art Performances and Poetry Readings
Traditional Minangkabau arts, such as randai and tari piring, will be showcased alongside contemporary performances by international delegates. “Art is a universal language that connects us all,” Yozarwardi noted.

3. Book Exhibitions and Launches
Local authors will have the opportunity to introduce their works to international markets, creating direct connections between publishers and readers.

4. SMEs Bazaar
Local products, including Minangkabau textiles and traditional cuisine, will be presented to international delegates. This aligns with UNCTAD’s creative economy concept, where culture and creativity drive global economic growth.

Strategic Benefits of IMLF

For West Sumatra:

Promoting Tourism and Culture: International delegates will share their experiences, enhancing Sumbar’s image as a cultural destination.

Empowering Local Economies: The SMEs bazaar offers new economic opportunities for local communities.

Strengthening Cultural Identity: IMLF serves as a platform for locals to reflect on and appreciate their heritage.

For Indonesia:

Cultural Diplomacy: IMLF builds Indonesia’s soft power on the global stage.

Enhancing National Literacy Image: The festival showcases Indonesia’s active engagement in global literacy initiatives.

Fostering International Collaboration: The event opens doors for local institutions to partner with global organizations.

For the World:

Knowledge Exchange: Delegates from various nations share insights on literacy trends and cultural innovations.

Cross-Cultural Understanding: Dialogues and artistic performances foster appreciation for Indonesia’s cultural diversity.

Global Cooperation: IMLF provides a platform to forge collaborations in literacy, arts, and technology.

Yozarwardi: A Leader Who Writes

Beyond his role as a bureaucrat, Yozarwardi is also a prolific writer. During the meeting, he presented three of his books to the IMLF committee: Managing Forests with Heart, Social Forestry to Alleviate Poverty from the Margins, and Sowing Dreams of a Shared Future with Forests.

“A leader should not only work but also inspire through writing,” Sastri commented.

IMLF 2025: Optimism for the Future

With strong synergy between the government and the literacy community, the third IMLF is expected to drive meaningful change. This festival exemplifies how literacy can serve as a bridge to a more inclusive world.

As Nelson Mandela once said, “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” IMLF embodies this principle, linking literacy with diplomacy to create a better future.

West Sumatra is ready to showcase itself not only as a part of Indonesia’s cultural map but also as a key player in global literacy.

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[LM, editorial board of Suara Anak Negeri.com, Satu Pena Sumbar, assisted by AI]
Image source: Sastri Bakry Documentation