Strengthening Literacy Culture, National Library Launches Relima Programme

REPUBLIKA.CO.ID, JAKARTA – The National Library (Perpusnas) of the Republic of Indonesia continues to provide sources of knowledge and encourages the public to read. The programme titled Community Literacy Volunteers (Relima) brings literacy culture closer to heterogeneous communities.

Thus, the Library is no longer positioned as a passive space for book storage, but rather as a centre for activities, creativity, and community empowerment. The Head of Perpusnas RI, E Aminudin Aziz, explained that literacy is the primary foundation in building the nation’s dignity.

Interestingly, he added, although the budget has experienced a decline, the number of volunteers is being increased significantly. Aminudin views this step as an impact-based strategy, not merely a budgetary approach.

“What we are pursuing is not just running a programme, but its impact. Relima provides a significant effect because it directly mobilises the community. In 2026, the volunteers involved in Relima will reach 360 people spread across approximately 200 regencies/cities in Indonesia,” Aminudin stated to the media in Jakarta on Monday (6/4/2026).

According to him, no nation can achieve high dignity without a good literacy rate. Aminudin stated that literacy is not only related to reading and writing abilities, but also encompasses critical thinking skills, evaluating information, and creating innovations in community life.

“Literacy is the foundation of human civilisation, from recognising the environment to creating new things,” said Aminudin.