Dispusip Holds Literature Week and Exhibition at PDS HB Jassin TIM Gallery
Reported by Aldi Geri Lumban Tobing | Translated by Nugroho Adibrata
The Jakarta Library and Archives Agency (Dispusip) is holding the Literature Week and Exhibition 2024 at the Jakarta Library and the HB Jassin Literary Document Center, Ali Sadikin Building, Taman Ismail Marzuki Complex, Cikini Urban Village, Menteng, Central Jakarta from June 3 to 16, 2024.
It is an important part of national and state life
The exhibition with the theme 'Yang Berkeliaran di Jakarta dan Tertangkap Oleh Kata' displays a wealth of local literature, especially Betawi and Jakarta literature by high school students, college students, teachers, community and literary activists, and the general public.
Jakarta Dispusip Head, Firmansyah said it was not just a celebration of beautiful words and creative ideas, but also a reflection of the spirit of togetherness as a diverse Jakarta society that always appreciates and maintains its rich cultural heritage.
Again, DKJ Holds Film, Literature and Theater CompetitionAccording to him, literature is a window into the soul of a city and through this Literature Week, we hope to broaden our horizons and deepen the meaning of Jakarta.
"It is an important part of national and state life, as this is where the work of cultural figures, artists, and writers can be seen which are manifested in expressions, namely the results of literary works which are part of the future development of our civilization. We also continue to legitimize that we have quite high cultural elements and are even well known in the world," he expressed, at the opening of the Literature Week and Exhibition 2024, Monday (6/3) yesterday.
He explained Betawi, as an inseparable part of Jakarta's identity, has made a major contribution to Indonesian literature. The works of Betawi writers not only entertain but reflect daily life, traditions, and values that are valuable to society. According to him, the contribution of Betawi literature to the development of the city of Jakarta is very significant.
"Betawi literature also plays an important role in shaping cultural identity and enriching Jakarta's cultural heritage. Maintaining cultural heritage, building city identity, introducing local culture, education, and cultural awareness, as well as cultural tourism," he explained.
He went on to say that it should be an integral part of Jakarta's development and cultural identity, because of its diverse and significant contributions.
By paying attention to and preserving the Betawi literary heritage, Jakarta can continue to enrich its culture and strengthen its position as a diverse and dynamic cultural center.
“The existence of writers gives a magical touch to this event. They are the pillars of culture that have brought Jakarta into the world of literature with the beauty of their words. This exhibition brings a spirit of togetherness and a sense of pride in our cultural identity, as well as providing inspiration, entertainment, and the opportunity to explore Jakarta's literary and cultural riches," he added.
Jakarta Library Management Unit and HB Jassin Literary Document Center Head, Diki Lukman Hakim uttered the event was aimed to introduce and promote the wealth of local literature to the wider community, both from Jakarta and outside Jakarta, including sharing insights related to Betawi and Jakarta literature, encourage creative ideas in the field of literature, and enliven the upcoming city's anniversary.
"Through this exhibition, hopefully, it can increase interest in reading and literacy, introduce the richness of local literature, celebrate Jakarta's cultural identity, build a solid literary community, inspire creativity and expression, and increase awareness of the importance of preserving local culture," he added.
As for the information, the event will also be enlivened with Discussions, Workshops, and Literary Performances. Performers at this event include JJ Rizal, Reda Gaudiamo, Seno Gumira Ajidarma, Melani Budianta, Yahya Andi Saputra, Aldiansyah Azura Andini Nur, Devina Heriyanto, Okky Madasari, and others.