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The Ubud Writers & Readers Festival (UWRF), one of Asia's most beloved literary gatherings, is just around the corner, set to return from October 23-27, 2024. With the theme Satyam Vada Dharmam Chara — "Speak the Truth, Practice Kindness" — this year’s festival invites us all to explore what it means to live with integrity and empathy. Every year, UWRF isn’t just a festival; it’s an experience that draws together writers, readers, and thinkers from across the world for a few transformative days in the heart of Ubud, Bali.
With anticipation building, UWRF promises more than 200 events featuring a diverse lineup of award-winning writers, journalists, and cultural voices. As one of the most highly regarded festivals in Southeast Asia, UWRF has earned its reputation as a space where meaningful conversations happen. And it’s not only about the big names; it’s about real, unfiltered exchanges on the challenges, triumphs, and heart of the human experience.
Indonesian novelist Ratih Kumala, author of Gadis Kretek, spoke at a recent press conference at The Dharmawangsa Jakarta. “What sets UWRF apart is how it consistently brings global voices together. This year, Nobel laureate Maria Ressa will be here, as well as Amitav Ghosh, a recent recipient of the Erasmus Prize. It’s a chance for us to connect and learn from one another through the sessions in October,” she said, capturing the excitement shared by so many.
This year’s festival also brings celebrated Indonesian author Dee Lestari, who will debut her latest work, Tanpa Rencana, a deeply personal reflection on life’s unexpected turns. And to mark the 100th anniversary of Indonesia’s literary giant Pramoedya Ananta Toer, UWRF will host a special panel featuring his brother, Soesilo Toer, honoring his enduring legacy. One of the standout events will be the world premiere of Goenawan Mohamad’s Indonesian adaptation of Don Quixote, where he brings a unique blend of wayang golek puppetry and modern artistry to this timeless classic.
From outside Indonesia, we’ll hear from speakers who bring their own poignant stories and insights. Atef Abu Saif, former Palestinian Minister of Culture, offers a rare, candid perspective from Gaza, while human rights lawyer Sara M. Saleh explores the struggles faced by women in conflict zones. Myanmar’s dissident writer Ma Thida will delve into her country’s political struggles, adding an essential voice to this year’s theme.
Reflecting on last year’s milestone 20th anniversary, UWRF Founder and Director Janet DeNeefe shared her hopes for 2024: “We’re building on the success of our 20th year with an even more eclectic mix of programming that envisions a bold future. We’re also thrilled to be showcasing the best of Indonesian talent alongside global figures, with the hope that the world will one day recognize their talent as much as we do.”
The festival is also a launchpad for emerging voices in Indonesia’s literary world. Since 2008, the Emerging Writers Program has highlighted promising talent, many of whom are now established names. Ade Mulyono, a young writer from Central Java and one of this year’s ten selected writers, shared how the program has impacted him. His work will be published in a bilingual anthology premiering at UWRF, after weeks of mentorship and workshops.
Another highlight this year will be Agustinus Wibowo’s Kita dan Mereka, as he leads an exclusive masterclass. “UWRF is more than an intellectual gathering; it’s a spiritual one. It’s a journey in every sense — physical and inner. It’s a chance for Indonesian writers to make their voices heard on the global stage,” he expressed at the press conference.
For anyone who loves stories, ideas, and the power of shared conversations, UWRF 2024 is an invitation to experience something special, where truth and kindness become central to a festival that keeps humanity at its heart.
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