To celebrate World Book Day, Bank Indonesia Kepri in collaboration with Batam Tourism Polytechnic hosted the Literacy Fest 2024 on May 18th at the BTP Auditorium in Sekupang. The event featured a talk show and a book discussion on “Gadis Kretek” with its author, Ratih Kumala.
The event was part of a broader initiative to foster a culture of reading and appreciation for Indonesian literature among students and the local community in Batam.
Ratih Kumala, renowned for her fictional works, was present to dissect her novel “Gadis Kretek,” sharing insights into her creative process and the historical contexts that influence her narratives.
The author emphasized storytelling without the burden of moralizing, allowing readers to derive their own lessons, with the plot inspired by her fascination with history and her proximity to the kretek (clove cigarette) industry.
The book discussion aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of literary creation, with Kumala discussing the challenges she faced during the writing process, which spanned over four years including extensive research in cities like Kudus.
Beyond novels, Ratih Kumala is also known for her contributions to film scripts and digital advertising, sharing that her writing journey began in adolescence with short stories, eventually leading to nationally published works.
Read More: Boosting Batam as a Tourist Destination through Infrastructure and Digital Marketing
The Literacy Fest also featured competitions in opinion writing and book reviews, engaging a wide range of participants from students to local writers, celebrating World Book Day with a focus on enriching the local literary scene.
The event highlights Batam’s emerging cultural scene and its efforts to promote literacy and artistic expression. Such initiatives not only enhance local tourism but also position Batam as a hub for cultural and educational exchanges in the region.
The Literacy Fest 2024 in Batam, held in celebration of World Book Day, featured a special book discussion with Ratih Kumala, author of “Gadis Kretek.” The event underscored Batam’s commitment to fostering a vibrant literary culture, attracting not only local students and residents but also positioning the city as a noteworthy destination for cultural tourism in Southeast Asia.
Source: Batam Pos (2024)
