Frankfurt Book Fair 2024, an international gathering for book enthusiasts—including publishers, writers, literary agents, artists, and readers worldwide—was successfully held in October 2024. This year, “Reading” showcased various engaging discussions and innovations poised to transform how books are perceived. ASTA Ilmu Publishing, a global education publisher from Indonesia, participated in the world’s most significant book fair, marking its fourth consecutive year since 2019. They aimed to present Indonesian textbooks as comprehensive learning resources that meet global standards.
Natalina Rimba, the Marketing Director of ASTA Ilmu Publishing, brought 99 textbooks and children’s storybooks to the fair, including a new English learning book for Primary Level titled “Rise Up!” published in 2023. The ASTA Ilmu Publishing program is utilized by over 2 million students in Indonesia, covering subjects such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Mandarin. Furthermore, their textbooks and reading materials are also used in more than 22 countries.
On 17 October 2024, Natalina had the honor of participating as a speaker in the ASIA STAGE: Educational Publishing session held in Hall 5.1. In this session, she discussed with notable speakers, including Atty. Dominador Buhain, Paolo Sibal, José Borghino (Secretary General of the IPA), Brian Gilsenan (Chair of the IPA Education Publishers Forum), and Duriya Aziz from Scholastic Education, Singapore. The group examined the role of private publishers in enhancing PISA results by providing quality textbooks. The lively dialogue focused on essential topics like how private publishers can produce educational content that meets the contemporary global demand and quality standards. This discussion also aimed to align with the expected learning objectives set by PISA indicators and the academic policies of various countries.
on October 17, 2024.
During the discussion, Natalina emphasized that textbooks, particularly those published by ASTA Ilmu Publishing, serve as an educational tool and an integral component of a national narrative that caters to students as global citizens engaging with diverse perspectives. She stressed the need for private publishers to support the aspirations of education ministers worldwide.
Natalina highlighted that ASTA Ilmu Publishing textbooks are designed according to the Independent Curriculum currently being implemented in Indonesia, and they can also be adapted to other international curricula. She stated, “Our books are prepared based on international standards, focusing on developing students’ soft skills and character. The essential content in our textbooks helps strengthen literacy and numeracy competencies while providing teachers with the flexibility needed to meet PISA standards.
She reaffirmed ASTA Ilmu Publishing’s commitment to producing learning materials aligned with global standards applicable to various international curricula. We are here at the Frankfurt Book Fair to demonstrate that learning programs in Indonesia are progressing in line with the latest Indonesian curriculum, the Merdeka Curriculum; private publishers, including ASTA Ilmu Publishing, continue to innovate by presenting textbooks that adhere to global standards and support learning through the latest methods.
Natalina concluded the session with optimism, stating, “Through forums and discussions like this, we hope ASTA Ilmu Publishing will inspire international publishers to innovate in providing quality learning materials that serve Indonesia and the entire world.” She expressed her hope that this would open doors for broader collaboration with global publishers, aiming to enhance the quality of education in Indonesia as we approach the Golden Road in 2024.
