EduAsiaNews, Malang — The development of digital technology is changing not only how people communicate but also how works of language and literature are created, distributed and enjoyed. The transformation was among the issues discussed at the 2026 National Language and Literature Month (BBS) Seminar organized by Universitas Negeri Malang (UM) through its Department of Indonesian Literature at the Faculty of Letters on Thursday (Oct. 1) at the Lecture Hall on the ninth floor of the GKB A20 building.
Held under the theme “Exploring the Essence of Nusantara Language, Literature and Culture Amid Accelerating Cultural and Digital Transformation,” the seminar provided an academic forum for students, academics and practitioners to discuss the position of language and literature amid cultural change and technological development.
The seminar featured nationally renowned writer Erisca Febriani as a speaker. The event was also attended by UM Faculty of Letters Vice Dean I Evy Nurul Laili Zen, S.S., M.A., Ph.D.; head of the Department of Indonesian Literature Dr. Azizatus Zahro, S.Pd., M.Pd.; head of the Indonesian Language and Literature Study Program Dr. Karkono, S.S., M.A.; as well as members of the academic community and seminar participants.
UM Features National Writer at BBS 2026
Head of the Department of Indonesian Literature Azizatus Zahro highlighted changes in the literary ecosystem alongside the development of information technology. She said literature had been adapting to digital spaces for around two decades, when literary works began to be distributed through platforms such as Facebook, BlackBerry Messenger and WhatsApp.
The trend has continued with the emergence of various social media and digital platforms, creating broader opportunities for literary works to be produced, shared and reach readers.
Meanwhile, Evy Nurul Laili Zen encouraged Indonesian Literature students to build their capacities gradually. She said students should not limit themselves to being readers but should also develop the ability to analyze and create literary works.
“Students of Indonesian Literature should enjoy literature, become literary enthusiasts and critics, and create literary works,” she said.
Evy also praised the achievements of UM Indonesian Literature students at the 2026 National Student Arts Week (Peksiminas). UM students won third place in the poetry reading competition and an honorable mention in poetry writing. The achievements formed part of the students’ competency development process while providing them with experience in producing literary works at the national level.
The event was in line with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4 on Quality Education, particularly through strengthening critical thinking, literacy, creativity and lifelong learning skills.
The participation of a nationally recognized writer in the academic forum also brought practical experience from the world of writing into dialogue with perspectives from higher education. The interaction provided students with an opportunity to understand that technological developments can serve as new mediums for literary production and appreciation, while also requiring the ability to understand context, develop ideas and maintain the quality of literary works.
Through BBS 2026, UM continues to provide opportunities for students to develop language and literature as forms of knowledge and culture that can adapt to changing times. The seminar also formed part of UM’s efforts to foster an academic environment that encourages students to develop their intellectual and creative capacities.
