The first command revealed in the Qur’an is Iqra—read. This command emphasizes that reading is not merely an intellectual activity but also a spiritual duty that forms the foundation of human civilization. Reading is the gateway to knowledge, wisdom, and a broader understanding of the world. Without reading, people easily fall into ignorance and manipulation.
Pramoedya Ananta Toer, one of Indonesia’s greatest literary figures, consistently emphasized the importance of literacy in building civilization. Through his works, he depicted how a nation that does not read becomes a nation that is easily deceived, controlled, and trapped in fanaticism and manipulation. Ironically, this reality still persists in Indonesia today. The lack of a strong reading culture has hindered critical thinking and turned ignorance into a recurring systemic issue.
Reading: The Neglected Window to the World
The phrase “reading is the window to the world” is not just a slogan but a reality. Through reading, one can gain a broader understanding of the world, learn history, and explore diverse thoughts that enrich perspectives. Unfortunately, in Indonesia, reading interest remains alarmingly low. UNESCO data reveals that Indonesia’s reading index is approximately 0.001, meaning only 1 in 1,000 people engages in serious reading habits. This has significant implications for the nation’s intellectual quality.
When reading is not ingrained in the culture, society becomes highly susceptible to misinformation. Hoaxes, propaganda, and hate speech spread easily due to weak critical thinking skills. Excessive fanaticism towards figures, ideologies, or groups flourishes in environments with minimal literacy. This leads to a society that is unaccustomed to questioning information, merely accepting and spreading it without verification.
Literacy and Critical Thinking Skills
One of the most profound consequences of low literacy is the weakening of critical thinking abilities. In societies that do not prioritize reading, public opinion is largely shaped by instant information, which is often inaccurate. Social media becomes the primary source of news, while many people lack the skills to distinguish between credible and misleading information.
Pramoedya stressed that ignorance is not merely a weakness but a perpetuated system. Many authoritarian regimes have systematically suppressed literacy and critical education to maintain control. A society with limited knowledge tends to be passive and easily manipulated by those in power. Without literacy, democracy itself becomes fragile, as people lack the intellectual capacity to critique policies and demand accountability.
Building a Literacy Culture as Resistance
If a nation seeks independence and progress, fostering a literacy culture must be a priority. Literacy extends beyond basic reading and writing; it encompasses deep comprehension, critical analysis, and the courage to question information. Schools, families, and media must play active roles in cultivating reading habits from an early age.
In the digital era, access to information is easier than ever. However, without strong literacy skills, this accessibility becomes a double-edged sword, making society even more vulnerable to misinformation. Therefore, literacy movements must be promoted at all societal levels. Reading programs, book discussions, and critical thinking education should be integral to the national education system and public policy.
Conclusion
Pramoedya issued a clear warning: without literacy, this nation will remain trapped in systemic ignorance. Reading is not merely a hobby but a necessity for creating an intelligent, critical, and independent society. If we wish to break free from this cycle of ignorance, fostering a culture of reading must be a national agenda. Without literacy, we are not only forfeiting our future but also dooming ourselves to an endless cycle—a nation that is easily deceived and controlled.
