Gowa, August 29, 2026 – The English Language and Literature Study Program (BSI), Faculty of Adab and Humanities, UIN Alauddin Makassar, celebrates the achievement of its lecturer Umar Thamrin, who recently launched his literary work Membilang Bintang in its English translation, titled Star Memories.
The English edition was officially launched through an international online event hosted by the Consulate General of the Republic of Indonesia in San Francisco in collaboration with Dalang Publishing LLC. The event was held on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. San Francisco time, corresponding to Saturday, August 29, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. Jakarta time.
The launch brought together the author, translator, diplomatic representatives, academics, and literature enthusiasts. Umar Thamrin, the author of Membilang Bintang, was featured alongside Yuni Utami Asih, who translated the work into English, and Yohpy Ichsan Wardana, Consul General of the Republic of Indonesia in San Francisco.
The publication of Star Memories represents an important achievement in bringing Indonesian literary works to a wider international readership. By making the work available in English, the publication creates opportunities for readers outside Indonesia to engage with the story and cultural perspectives presented in the original Indonesian work.
As a lecturer in the English Language and Literature Study Program, Umar Thamrin's achievement also demonstrates the contribution of BSI academic staff to literary production and the international dissemination of Indonesian literature. His work as an author complements the academic expertise developed within the field of English language and literature, particularly in literary studies and creative writing.
The involvement of Yuni Utami Asih as translator further highlights the importance of collaboration between literary creation and translation in bringing Indonesian works to global audiences. The English translation enables Membilang Bintang to cross linguistic and cultural boundaries while introducing Indonesian literary voices to international readers.
The launch was conducted virtually and was attended by participants from Indonesia and abroad. The event provided a platform for discussion and appreciation of the literary work while highlighting the potential of Indonesian literature to participate in the international literary landscape.
For the English Language and Literature Study Program, the achievement is a valuable contribution to its academic profile and strengthens the connection between scholarly expertise, literary production, and international engagement. It also serves as an example of how lecturers can contribute to the development and international promotion of Indonesian literature beyond the university classroom.
The BSI Study Program congratulates Umar Thamrin on the international launch of Star Memories and appreciates his contribution to promoting Indonesian literature through literary publication and international collaboration. (Editor: PC)
