Padang-Indonesia Welcomes the World: The 3rd IMLF – A Harmony of Literacy, Arts, Literature, Language, and Culture for a Global Future
The Chairperson and Secretary of Satu Pena West Sumatra (Sastri Bakry and Armaidi Tanjung) held discussions on the agenda for the 3rd IMLF with the Head of the Padang Tourism Office (Yudi Indra Syani), accompanied by the secretary and staff (December 27, 2024). Photo credit: Sastri Bakry, Satu Pena/ Ketua dan Sekretaris Satu Pena Sumbar (Sastri Bakry dan Armaidi Tanjung) mendiskusikan agenda IMLF III dengan Kepala Dinas Pariwisata Kota Padang (Yudi Indra Syani) bersama sekretaris dan staf (27/12/2024). Sumber foto: Sastry Bakri Satu Pena.
By Leni Marlina
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JAKARTA – Suara Anak Negeri.com| The city of Padang, West Sumatra, is set to once again capture global attention as it hosts the 3rd International Minangkabau Literacy Festival (IMLF) from May 8 to 12, 2025. More than just a celebration of literacy, the festival embodies the synergy of Minangkabau arts, culture, and tourism to shine on the global stage.
Charting Milestones: From IMLF I to IMLF II
Since its debut in 2023, the IMLF has established a stellar reputation as an international event. The inaugural IMLF welcomed delegations from various countries, emphasizing literacy as a bridge between cultures. With the full support of the government, including the Secretary of West Sumatra Province, Hansastri, the festival solidified its position on the global stage.
The 2024 IMLF II faced a significant challenge when a natural disaster struck near the event’s conclusion. However, the unwavering spirit of the organizers and participants turned adversity into inspiration. Featuring delegations from 17 countries and 42 creative activities, the festival resonated widely on social media, highlighting Padang’s commitment to celebrating diversity through literacy.
IMLF III: Literacy as Cultural Diplomacy
The 2025 IMLF III aims to achieve even greater heights. Yudi Indra Syani, Head of the Padang Tourism Office, stated, “This festival is more than a local celebration. It is a global dialogue platform that showcases Minangkabau’s richness through literacy, arts, and culture, while also promoting Padang as a premier tourist destination.”
A variety of activities are designed to offer authentic experiences, such as exploring the historic Indarung heritage site, visiting the enchanting Padayo Bat Cave, and participating in the traditional salaju sampan game. These events aim to embody the essence of Minangkabau: the spirit of togetherness and mutual cooperation.
IMLF III will also feature renowned literary figures from around the world sharing their works. Traditional dance performances, international poetry readings, and cross-cultural artistic collaborations are expected to be major highlights, attracting not only local visitors but also delegations from 20 countries targeted to attend.
A Spirit of Collaboration for the Future
Sastri Bakry, Chairperson of DPD SatuPena West Sumatra, emphasized that the success of IMLF III will be realized through close collaboration between the government, local communities, and society. “We believe literacy and culture are the main pillars for fostering stronger global relationships,” she stated with optimism.
Meanwhile, Yudi Indra Syani reiterated, “IMLF belongs to all of us. Let’s come together to show the world that Padang is a city of cultural warmth, boundless creativity, and inspiring collaboration.”
Envisioning the Future of Global Literacy
Building on the solid successes of its previous two editions, the 3rd IMLF is set to become a world-class festival. It will not only elevate the name of Minangkabau and Indonesia but also foster broader international dialogue, positioning literacy as a medium for peace and global development.
Padang, with its beauty and rich cultural heritage, stands on the brink of creating new history. The 2025 IMLF III will not only be a celebration of literacy but also a moment to create a cultural legacy that the world will remember.
[LM-Suara Anak Negeri & AT-Satu Pena Sumbar]
