Jakarta (VNA) – The authority of Denpasar, capital of Indonesia's Bali province is strengthening efforts to promote a reading culture as a strategic foundation for building a knowledge-based society and resilient urban development, particularly after recent natural disasters.
Speaking at the opening of Denpasar Reading Culture Week 2025, Deputy Mayor I Kadek Agus Arya Wibawa cited National Library data showing that Denpasar’s reading interest index reached 83.38, with residents reading on average more than six times a week, through both printed and digital books. Despite this progress, he called for greater involvement from educators, cultural activists, and parents to further expand the movement.
He stressed that this year’s event, themed “strong reading culture, progressive Denpasar”, is part of a strategic plan to foster an intelligent society and lay a solid base for future growth. A key focus is supporting students affected by recent floods to ensure their education and access to knowledge are not disrupted.
According to Acting Director of the Denpasar Library and Archives Department, Cokorda Gede Partha Sudarsana, this is the first time the event has been held on a large scale. Activities include workshops on writing short stories in the Balinese language, competitions for all age groups from preschoolers to teachers, author dialogues, exhibitions, and book fairs.
The programme is designed to create an inclusive creative space while reinforcing the role of cultural promoters and educators in strengthening reading habits. Denpasar aims to spread knowledge widely within the community and foster long-term resilience in the face of natural disasters./.
