French Ambassador to Indonesia, Fabien Penone (left) inaugurated the first Choix Goncourt in Indonesia with the President of Académie Goncourt, Philippe Claudel (right) and Secretary General of Éditions Gallimard, Karina Hocine (center) on May 11, 2026. (SEA Daily/Sadina Aimee)
On May 11, Indonesia officially joined the international Choix Goncourt network with the launch of the first-ever Choix Goncourt Indonesia, held in Jakarta. The initiative marks a new milestone in cultural exchange between France and Indonesia, particularly in the field of literature.
Beyond recognising literary excellence, the programme aims to strengthen dialogue between the two countries through reading, translation and ideas. Young readers play a central role in this initiative, positioning students as key participants in building cultural connections between the French-speaking world and Indonesia.
Thirteen students majoring in French literature studies from seven Indonesian universities were selected to serve as the inaugural jury. Their task is to read and discuss four contemporary French literary works before collectively choosing the title they believe deserves recognition in Indonesia.
To commemorate the launch, Philippe Claudel, a novelist, filmmaker and President of the Académie Goncourt travelled to Jakarta from May 11 to 12. He was accompanied by Karina Hocine, Secretary General of Éditions Gallimard. During the visit, the guests met with the student jurors, public representatives and figures from Indonesia’s literary and film communities.
Founded in 1903, the Prix Goncourt is widely regarded as the most prestigious award in French literature. Since its international extension, Choix Goncourt has invited student juries worldwide to review the official shortlist and share their perspectives on contemporary French-language literature.
The Indonesian edition of Choix Goncourt also builds upon the Ayo Baca! cooperation initiative launched last year by the Institut français d’Indonésie and the French Embassy in Indonesia.
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