Report by Eka Teresia
Translated (Indonesian-English) by Leni Marlina, Editor of Suaraanaknegerinews.com
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PADANG — November 25th, 2025. Suaraanaknegerinews.com| In a decisive display of cultural stewardship, the Head of the West Sumatra Provincial Library and Archives Office, Jumaidi, S.Pd., M.Pd., has pledged full institutional backing for the upcoming ASEAN Pantun Festival, scheduled for January 16–17. More than a celebration of Malay poetic tradition, the festival is poised to serve as a strategic instrument of regional cultural diplomacy, elevating the visibility of Minangkabau arts, history, and hospitality on an international platform.
During a coordination meeting with the organizing committee, Jumaidi emphasized the importance of thoughtful preparation to ensure that delegates from across ASEAN and guests from various Indonesian provinces encounter the finest expressions of Minangkabau identity.
“We must deliver an event that resonates deeply and leaves a memorable mark. Our warmth, our hospitality—these should be felt by every guest who enters Ranah Minang,” he stated.
The two-day festival will open with a dynamic series of flagship events, including the ASEAN Pantun Competition, the Launch of the ASEAN Pantun Anthology, and the Intercultural Friendship Evening—a signature program designed to foster cross-border literary dialogue. The festival is the product of a strong collaboration between Penyala Literasi Sumbar, key Publishing partners, and Galeri Sastra.
The organizing team—led by Penyala Literasi Sumbar Chair Eka Teresia, S.Pd., M.M., supported by Secretary Patra Rina Dewi, M.Si., and members Nel Susanti and Sry Marlinda—was warmly received by the provincial Library and Archives Office during their formal visit.
Eka expressed deep confidence in the festival’s success, noting that provincial government support forms the backbone of its credibility and momentum.
“Government backing is pivotal. It elevates our standing, enhances the festival’s prestige, and assures our international guests that West Sumatra is firmly committed to advancing literacy and cultural preservation,” she said.
To further enrich the festival experience, Eka announced the introduction of a curated Literacy Heritage Exploration Tour, designed to immerse participants in the cultural landscapes of West Sumatra. The tour includes visits to Rumah Baca Taufik Ismail, the Fadlizon Cultural House, Bung Hatta’s Historic Residence, and the iconic Pagaruyung Palace—each of which stands as a living testament to Minangkabau heritage.
This immersive cultural journey is expected to generate significant international visibility by showcasing the region’s historical depth, architectural magnificence, and literary legacy. The organizing committee hopes that sustained support from all stakeholders will elevate the festival into one of West Sumatra’s most distinguished and enduring cultural showcases.
The Indonesian version of the news are avilable in the following Indonesian link:
📰 Kadis Perpustakaan Sumbar Dukung Penuh Festival Pantun ASEAN, Siap Promosikan Pesona Ranah Minang
