Asrul Sani's Works as a Medium to Nurture and Advance Culture

Jakarta - Secretary General of the Ministry of Culture, Bambang Wibawarta, has stated that the works of the late artist, filmmaker, and literary figure Asrul Sani serve as a medium to strengthen the commitment to nurturing and advancing Indonesian culture. “This commemoration is not only a space to remember Asrul Sani but also a momentum to renew our commitment to preserving and advancing culture as a source of strength for national unity and progress,” Bambang said during an online dialogue commemorating the 101st anniversary of Asrul Sani’s birth on Tuesday. He reflected on the works of the West Sumatran literary figure which were adapted into films, calling them spaces for moral and social reflection. He noted that the works “Titian Serambut Dibelah Tujuh” and “Naga Bonar” demonstrated that cinema can be a space for moral and social reflection, which is vitally important in the history of national thought. “Meanwhile, ‘Naga Bonar’ successfully presented the story of the nation’s struggle with a humanist, humorous touch that is close to the people. Through this work, Indonesians can connect very strongly to the national identity while possessing a very high artistic quality,” he added. “May his works, ideas, and example continue to guide us and the journey of Indonesian culture, now and in the future,” he continued. On the same occasion, the Head of the National Library, E. Aminudin Aziz, said that Asrul Sani’s literary works are not merely a commemoration of the past but a revival of ideas amidst current developments. He highlighted the ongoing challenge of low literacy levels and the minimal availability of reading materials that match the public’s interests. According to him, engaging literary works can be an effective medium for conveying information. His institution is currently endeavouring to ensure that Asrul Sani’s works remain alive and become widely known to the younger generation, one of which is through an exhibition on the fourth floor of the National Library, running until 17 June 2026.