(Photo: Sastri Bakry, SatuPena)
PADANG, AmanMakmur —-The city of Padang, West Sumatra, with its stunning beauty and rich cultural heritage, is poised to step once again onto the global stage. From May 8–12, 2025, Padang will host the 3rd International Minangkabau Literacy Festival (IMLF), a grand event that celebrates more than just literacy but also unites the world through the unique culture and values of Minangkabau.
Having successfully hosted the inaugural IMLF in 2023 with delegations from 12 countries and IMLF II in 2024 with participation from 17 nations, IMLF III now aims to welcome delegates from 20 countries. These past achievements have built a strong foundation for making the Minangkabau name even more recognized and respected internationally.
IMLF is more than just a festival. Since its inception, it has become a bridge connecting local traditions with the modern world, uniting nations through words, art, and dialogue. Sastri Bakry, Chairperson of SatuPena West Sumatra, humbly expressed gratitude for the unwavering support.
“IMLF is a celebration of togetherness. We couldn’t have achieved this without the contributions of everyone—communities, governments, literacy advocates, and international delegates. We hope to deliver even greater success in 2025,” she said, Saturday (28/12/2024).
This year, Padang will showcase not only literacy as the festival’s core but also its priceless natural beauty and cultural wealth. Heritage Indarung, a site steeped in the nation’s history, will be one of the highlights. Other attractions include the unique geological marvel of Padayo Bat Cave and the traditional salaju sampan game, which symbolizes Minangkabau’s warm spirit of unity.
Yudi Indra Syani, Head of the Padang Tourism Office, emphasized the festival’s significance on December 27, 2024. “This is more than just an event—it’s an opportunity to share, foster friendships, and show the world that Padang’s richness goes beyond its visual beauty to its profound meaning,” he remarked with pride.
IMLF III will offer a variety of exciting activities, including poetry readings by international literary figures, traditional Minangkabau dance performances, and art concerts featuring local and international artists. These activities are designed to blend tradition with innovation and create unforgettable experiences.
The heart of the festival, however, remains literacy—a tool for social transformation, carrying messages of peace, equality, and hope. “IMLF is our way of communicating to the world that through writing and culture, we can build harmonious collaboration,” Yudi added.
Acting Mayor of Padang, Andree Algamar, along with the city’s government, has expressed full commitment to supporting the event. Collaborations with various literacy communities and international partners have laid a strong foundation for ensuring the success of IMLF III.
“We believe that Padang, with its potential and the hospitality of its people, can be an exceptional host. We want the world to see Padang as a city not only of beauty but also of inspiration,” said Andree.
With delegations from diverse countries, IMLF serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue. It is more than an event; it is a tool for cultural diplomacy, elevating Minangkabau values on the global stage.
“Our culture is a treasure that must be preserved and shared. By sharing, we do not lose—it enriches us,” Sastri wisely noted.
The 3rd IMLF represents a significant journey, not just for Padang but for the entire Minangkabau community. The festival invites everyone to celebrate culture, build friendships, and embrace literacy as a global force for good.
Ultimately, Padang opens its doors with warmth, inviting the world to come, see, and experience. In every story, poem, and performance, the soul of Minangkabau reaches out to share its beauty and wisdom.
With unwavering determination and a spirit of togetherness, Padang is ready to make history. IMLF III will be a grand stage demonstrating to the world that Minangkabau is a home of diversity, creativity, and hope. Padang shines not just for itself but for the entire world.
(Rel/LM-Forum Sumbar & AT-Satu Pena Sumbar)
