Attending the 35th International Publishers Congress on 2–8 July 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia was a transformative experience for Prihandini Nur Rahmah, an editor at the Indonesian independent publisher Marjin Kiri.
Initially, she came with a lingering professional curiosity about the book publishing industry in her neighbouring country. Ultimately, Prihandini returned home with a whole host of insights about the independent publishing ecosystem as a whole.
In search of new perspectives
Prihandini’s fascination with Malaysia’s book industry first sparked while visiting the Kuala Lumpur Alternative Bookfest. Since then, she often wondered why so few Malaysian literary works were translated into Indonesian, despite the two neighbouring nations sharing striking social, political, and cultural similarities.
The Publishing Futures 2026 programme became Prihandini’s much-anticipated gateway to explore the Malaysian publishing ecosystem firsthand. It allowed her to connect and explore collaboration opportunities with fellow publishers in Malaysia.
To Prihandini’s delight, the programme also gave her the opportunity to meet other publishing professionals from the UK and her home country, Indonesia. Her new professional connections did not only broaden Prihandini’s understanding of the business and social aspects of the publishing industry. Their collective dedication served as a powerful reminder of why independent publishers must stay true to their core values and unique editorial voices.
The power—and challenges—in publishing indigenous voices
During the 35th International Publishers Congress, discussions surrounding diversity and the freedom to publish resonated deeply with Prihandini's editorial ethos. A standout moment occurred on the first day during the session Indigenous Languages: Great Languages Spoken by Few People.
The panel emphasised that indigenous languages embody distinct ways of understanding the world. Sharing these linguistic traditions globally through publishing enriches cultural diversity, safeguards indigenous knowledge, and reinforces fundamental human rights and recognition.
However, the speakers also laid bare the harsh structural barriers facing indigenous publishing: a critical scarcity of specialised translators, minimal institutional or government backing, and worries related to the commercial risks of low market demand. For Prihandini, the session served as a reminder that at the end of the day, publishing indigenous language literature is not merely about chasing commercial profits, but a testament to cultural preservation for future generations.
