Pestarama 9: Islamic Cultural Influence on Indonesian Literature and Drama

The ninth annual Literary and Drama Appreciation Week, known as Pestarama 9, recently hosted a compelling Guest Lecture and National Seminar under the theme “The Role of Islamic Cultural Institutions in Shaping the Face of Islamic-Themed Literature and Drama in Indonesia.” Held at the Prof. Mahmud Yunus Theater in the Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training (FITK) at UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, this event brought together students, academics, and literary enthusiasts to explore the intersection of Islamic culture with literature and drama.

A Platform for Islamic Literature and Drama

Pestarama 9, organized by the Indonesian Language and Literature Education (PBSI) program at FITK, UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, has become a significant annual event, now in its ninth year. This year’s theme reflects the growing interest in Islamic-themed literature in Indonesia, highlighting the influence of Islamic cultural institutions in nurturing this genre.

The event attracted a diverse audience, including students and faculty from UIN Jakarta, Universitas Negeri Jakarta, Universitas Muhammadiyah Prof. Dr. Hamka, and Universitas Muhammadiyah Tangerang. The gathering served as a melting pot of ideas and discussions on the role of literature and drama in promoting Islamic values and culture.

The seminar featured distinguished speakers who have made notable contributions to Indonesian literature, especially in the Islamic genre. Notable among them were Jamal D Rahman, Rosida Erowati, M.Hum, and Dr. Ngatawi Al Zastrouw, S.Ag., M.Si, who delivered the guest lecture. Their insights provided a rich tapestry of perspectives on how Islamic themes can be woven into literature and drama to reflect contemporary issues and values.

In his opening remarks, Dr. Ahmad Bahtiar, M.Hum, Head of the PBSI Program at UIN Jakarta, underscored the significance of the event. “I highly appreciate this event, as it is significant not only for our students studying the history of literature but also for those studying literature in general,” said Ahmad Bahtiar.

Echoing this sentiment, Prof. Siti Nurul Azkiyah, M.Sc, Ph.D., Dean of FITK, UIN Jakarta, praised the organizers for their efforts. “Firstly, I want to express my appreciation to the committee for organizing this event so well,” said Prof. Nurul. She emphasized the importance of grounding Islamic culture and art in a way that can be appreciated by a broader audience. “Literature can be an effective medium to further ground and preserve Islamic cultures,” she added.

The Role of Islamic Cultural Institutions

One of the key discussions at the seminar revolved around the role of Islamic cultural institutions in shaping the landscape of Islamic-themed literature and drama. These institutions play a crucial role in promoting and preserving Islamic values through various forms of artistic expression. The speakers highlighted how these institutions provide a platform for writers and dramatists to explore and express Islamic themes, ensuring that these cultural narratives remain vibrant and relevant.

Engaging the Younger Generation

The seminar also emphasized the importance of engaging the younger generation in literature and drama with an Islamic touch. By fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of Islamic-themed literature, educational institutions can inspire young writers and artists to contribute to this growing field. This engagement not only enriches the cultural landscape but also ensures that Islamic values are passed down through generations.

As Pestarama 9 concluded, the discussions and insights shared during the seminar underscored the vital role of literature and drama in promoting and preserving Islamic culture. The event highlighted the need for continued support and collaboration among educational institutions, cultural organizations, and the literary community to nurture and promote Islamic-themed literature.

With its rich history and vibrant culture, Jakarta continues to be a hub for literary and artistic expression. Events like Pestarama 9 serve as a testament to the enduring significance of literature and drama in shaping and reflecting the cultural values of society. As the Islamic world looks forward to more such gatherings, the role of literature and drama in fostering understanding and appreciation of Islamic culture remains ever crucial.