Indonesian publishers shine at Melbourne book fair

Binatang Press, Perspektif Magazine offer fresh look at Jakarta’s subcultures, experiences of Indonesian students living in Australia

MELBOURNE, Australia (MNTV) — The 2025 Melbourne Art Book Fair at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) showcased a unique collection of Indonesian books, offering a rare glimpse into Jakarta’s subcultures often overlooked by major publishers, reports SBS. 

Andreas Junus from Binatang Press said these works provide a fresh perspective on Indonesian life and culture. “This year we’ve decided to include Indonesian-language books as well, so we can encourage Indonesians living in Australia to read books in their native language,” Junus added, noting this differs from last year when they only featured English-language publications. 

Binatang Press featured 15 to 20 books, including “From Ngak Ngik Ngok to Dheg Dheg Plas,” a deep dive into Indonesian music history from 1960 to 1969, and “RM Surya Never Sets,” the story of a legendary Padang restaurant in Jakarta. 

Another standout was Perspektif Magazine, managed by Indonesian students at the University of Melbourne. Gina Susanto, its Chief Operating Officer, highlighted the publication’s unique perspectives on Indonesian life and culture, including stories from Indonesian students living in Australia. 

The Melbourne Art Book Fair is a premier event that celebrates art book publishing and Melbourne’s status as a UNESCO City of Literature. This year’s fair took place from May 16 to 18 at the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV). The event featured a curated lineup of publishers, artists, and designers.

It is part of Melbourne Design Week and has become a major event in the city’s cultural calendar. The fair provides a platform for local and international publishers, artists, and designers to showcase their works and connect with audiences.