Let’s Read Helps Advance Indonesian Literacy

Indonesia has long faced challenges in reading literacy, ranking among the lowest-performing nations globally. This pressing reality highlights the urgent need to enhance reading skills and cultivate a love for books nationwide. Let’s Read Indonesia is leading the charge by collaborating with talented local authors and illustrators to create a free digital library for children filled with engaging and culturally relevant stories. These efforts are paving the way for a brighter future of literacy across the nation. 

A Major Milestone: Supporting the Library Festival 

In November 2024, Let’s Read Indonesia was invited by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education to participate in the Ministry’s Library Festival. The partnership marked a significant milestone in the mission to boost reading literacy in Indonesia. As part of the event, Let’s Read donated a reading corner along with 150 children’s books to the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education’s library, inspiring young readers to dive into a world of imagination. Let’s Read also held a workshop, Read-Aloud Training: Tactics for Encouraging Children to Love Reading, which was attended by playgroup teachers. 

The reading corner was officially handed over by our Deputy Country Representative of The Asia Foundation Indonesia Amala Rahmah, to Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, Abdul Mu’ti, the Minister of Primary and Secondary Education, during a ceremonial Tumpengan. In his speech, Mu’ti emphasized the urgency of addressing the nation’s low reading literacy. “We must introduce fresh efforts to spark an interest in reading among children.” 

How Let’s Read in Indonesia is Making a Difference 

Let’s Read Indonesia’s approach to improving reading literacy is multi-faceted and impactful: 

1. Engaging Books: By providing books with vibrant illustrations and captivating stories, Let’s Read makes reading an exciting adventure for children. 
2. Expanding Perspectives: The stories selected are not just entertaining; they also aim to broaden children’s horizons, helping them embrace diverse cultures and challenge stereotypes. 
3. Local Languages: Recognizing the importance of cultural connection, Let’s Read features books in various local languages such as Java, Sunda, Minang, Batak Toba, and Bali—ensuring that young readers feel represented and connected to their heritage. 

As Minister Abdul Mu’ti pointed out, “We need fresh, bold initiatives to increase children’s interest in reading.” Let’s Read Indonesia shows that impactful collaboration and creativity can address these challenges, fostering a culture of reading and storytelling across the nation.