Yayasan Mudra Swari Saraswati shines a spotlight on young Indonesian writers, voices and storytellers of tomorrow by helping them to reach their potential through educational programs and its Emerging Writer Program.

Ever heard about Norman Erikson Pasaribu and Ni Made Purnama Sari? There’s no shame in it if you haven’t. So far, little is known about Indonesia’s literary young scene.

Yayasan Mudra Swari Saraswati, an Indonesian not-for-profit Foundation, is trying to change that, by supporting promising storytellers of tomorrow, who might follow the footsteps of known Indonesian authors such as Laksmi Pamuntjak and Afrizal Malna.

Emerging Indonesian Writers

A core mission of the Foundation is to shine a spotlight on young Indonesian voices by helping them to reach their potential through educational programs and its Emerging Writer Program.

Every year, 15 aspiring novelists, poets, and playwrights from across Indonesia’s bustling cities and remote islands are selected by an independent curatorial board.

Once chosen, they are given a life-changing opportunity to learn and connect with established industry professionals at the organisation’s annual Festival, the Ubud Writers & Readers Festival.

Ubud Writers Festival is the biggest platform for Indonesian writers

The Festival, which is known as the biggest Festival of words and ideas in Southeast Asia, provides the selected emerging talents with a platform to come together with literary luminaries and acclaimed social commentators.

They are also invited to launch an illustrated Anthology that features the works of the young talents at the Festival.

This bilingual publication represents a vital opportunity for them to have their work translated into English, opening the door to international opportunities for the first time.

Receiving over 1,212 submissions in 2019, the series has grown to become one of Indonesia’s most wide-reaching literary achievements, representing work from across the archipelago. To sustain the Foundation’s community-building philosophy, the program is depending on financial support.

HOW TO SUPPORT

Support the future of Indonesian storytelling by becoming a member of the Emerging Writers Patron Program. With the support, the Foundation can pave the way for future collaborations and exciting career opportunities for young talents through the universal language of literature. Learn more at ubudwritersfestival.com