Indonesian writer and poet Denny JA has been recognised on the international stage with the BRICS Literary Innovation Award, celebrating his creative contribution to contemporary literature. The award highlights his role in developing the “poetry essay” form, a genre that blends storytelling, reflection and poetry to explore social and human issues.
The award was officially presented in Jakarta on 11 February 2026 at Hotel Aryaduta by Sastri Bakry, Head of BRICS Indonesia. Earlier, the honour had been announced at the BRICS Literature Award ceremony held at the Cairo International Book Fair on 25 January. Although Denny JA was unable to attend the event in Cairo, Sastri Bakry accepted the award on his behalf from Vadim Terekhin, Executive Director of the BRICS Literary Network.
The prize includes 200 million rupiah in cash, a BRICS plaque, an exclusive art book, a crystal from Egypt presented through the Egyptian Ministry of Culture, and the translation of Denny JA’s works into ten BRICS languages. The translation project is expected to open new doors for Indonesian literature across Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa and other BRICS partners.
Among those attending the Jakarta presentation were BRICS Indonesia literary juror Dikdik Sadikin and writer Monica Anggi Jr, representing the Denny JA Foundation.
In his acceptance speech, delivered in Cairo by Sastri Bakry, Denny JA spoke about the power of literature to connect people across borders. He described stories as bridges that link human experience with hope for the future. He encouraged young writers to trust their own voices and imagination, and to keep creating even when facing criticism. For him, innovation in literature allows writers to express emotional and social truths with courage.
Denny JA also reflected on the need for a more balanced global literary landscape. He expressed hope that voices from the Global South would receive greater attention and appreciation, enriching world literature with diverse cultural perspectives. He views literature not only as art, but also as a space for dialogue between cultures and as a path towards empathy and peace.
Speaking after receiving the award in Jakarta, Denny JA said that international recognition is an honour, yet bringing Indonesian poetry to the world is also a way of introducing Indonesia’s cultural identity to a wider audience.
Sastri Bakry noted that the award represents growing international acknowledgement of Indonesian literature. She emphasised that such recognition strengthens cultural exchange and cooperation among BRICS countries, creating opportunities for writers to engage with readers beyond national borders.
The BRICS Literary Award is a newly established international prize, launched in November 2024. It aims to support contemporary writers whose works reflect the cultural and spiritual values of BRICS member nations while encouraging dialogue across diverse traditions.
