West Sumatra’s “Penyala Literasi” Set to Shine at World Poetry Day 2026 in Kuala Terengganu
by Paulus Laratmase
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PADANG, February 6, 2026 – suaraanaknegerinews.com|The Penyala Literasi (Literacy Igniters) community of West Sumatra is poised to make its mark on the international stage. Three prominent women of Minangkabau literacy are scheduled to depart for Malaysia to attend the prestigious Cipta Citra V – World Poetry Day 2026.
The event, which serves as a magnet for writers across the Malay-speaking world, will be held in the cultural city of Kuala Terengganu from February 12 to 15, 2026. The presence of these representatives from the Minang Highlands is more than just fulfilling an invitation from the organizer, Saudara Umar; it is a strategic effort to strengthen cultural ties and poetic diplomacy along the east coast of the Malay Peninsula.
The Delegates
The Penyala Literasi West Sumatra community is sending three delegates with strong track records in education and literacy:
Eka Teresia, S.Pd., M.M. – Chairperson of Penyala Literasi West Sumatra, educator at SMK N 6 Padang, and Editor-in-Chief of negerinews.com.
Lily Yovita, S.Pd. – Supervisor at the Padang City Education Office.
Rahmi, S.Pd – Educator from SMK Negeri 5 Padang.
”This , is a tremendous honor for our community. Being part of this spectacular festival in a neighboring country is the momentum we need to prove that West Sumatran literacy can speak at a global level,” said Eka Teresia in a statement prior to her departure next week.
Cultural Mission Through the Power of Poetry
During the two-day event, the delegates will perform poetry readings before an international audience of poets. Beyond showcasing their mastery of rhyme and rhythm, their primary mission is to introduce the rich cultural heritage of West Sumatra to the world.
A sense of pride and emotion surrounds the team’s preparations. For them, poetry is not merely a collection of words but a bridge to the soul, connecting hearts while enjoying the scenic beauty of Kuala Terengganu. This meeting is expected to solidify the “Serumpun Sejiwa” (One Kin, One Soul) relationship between Indonesia and Malaysia through the medium of literature.
”We hope our performance can touch the hearts of the international audience while promoting the egalitarian character of Minangkabau culture, which is steeped in noble values,” added Lily Yovita.
This departure marks a new chapter for the literacy movement in West Sumatra, proving that the dedication of educators and literacy activists can transcend national borders for the sake of a broader cultural and humanitarian mission.
