Ayu
Utami

Awardee

Country

Indonesia

Ayu Utami promotes free expression through literature.

Themes
Sexual / queer expression
Free expression / Civil society
Disciplines
Literature
Awards
Archive - Prince Claus Laureate 2000

Profile

Ayu Utami is a novelist based in Indonesia. Known for her exploration of social and political themes within contemporary Indonesian society, her works often delve into issues such as gender equality, religion, and democracy. Utami gained international recognition for her novel "Saman," which addresses the intersection of traditional culture and modernity, particularly through the lens of feminism and the struggle for personal freedom. Through her writing, she challenges societal norms and advocates for greater individual autonomy, inspiring critical discourse and cultural introspection.Her literary contributions have sparked dialogue and reflection both domestically and abroad, positioning her as a prominent voice in Indonesian literature. Beyond "Saman," her other notable works include "Larung" and "Manjali dan Cakrabirawa." Ayu Utami's impact on Indonesian literature extends to her role as a cultural commentator and activist, amplifying marginalized voices and fostering awareness of societal inequalities. Her novels have been translated into multiple languages, reaching a global audience and fostering cross-cultural understanding.