Yogyakarta Pursues World Book Capital Status, Jogja Book Fair Boosts Ecosystem

The Ministry of Culture has expressed full support for Yogyakarta's bid to achieve the status of World Book Capital. The high turnout at the recently concluded Jogja Book Fair is seen as a significant catalyst for strengthening the city's book ecosystem. Minister of Culture Fadli Zon conveyed this support at the closing ceremony of the Jogja Book Fair in Yogyakarta on Tuesday, September 8. The 11-day exhibition showcased a diverse range of books, including new releases, translated works, children's books, and archival exhibitions. The themes covered were varied, spanning culture, politics, and self-development. "Books are an invaluable source of knowledge and wisdom. Quoting the message of the national hero Bung Hatta, books play a fundamental role in shaping the nation's character," said Fadli. He emphasized that book exhibitions like the Jogja Book Fair should be held regularly to expand public access to books and maintain reading interest. The Ministry of Culture also supports the efforts of the Indonesian Publishers Association (IKAPI) DIY branch in pushing Yogyakarta to meet the criteria for World Book Capital. "The ambition to make Yogyakarta a national and even world book center is a visionary step that should be supported together," Fadli stated. He noted that the high visitor participation during the fair indicates that the book industry still has significant room for growth. The Ministry of Culture is also preparing support for the Indonesia International Book Fair (IIBF), scheduled to take place in Jakarta at the end of September. The government hopes that the strengthening of the book ecosystem will involve not only exhibitions but also publishers, writers, literacy communities, and reading communities. The push for Yogyakarta to become World Book Capital is part of an effort to expand the city's position as a hub for national literacy and book-related activities.