KALAM — Confluence of Writers and Ideas is a community-driven literary gathering in Kuala Lumpur, a flagship component of the KL Kreatif Festival by Think City that celebrates the vibrant confluence of creativity, diversity, and community. Curated to be a vital nexus of creative and intellectual conversations, KALAM aims to have a lasting impact on the literary community, KL residents and visitors, and beyond. This three-day event will be held in Kuala Lumpur’s old city centre, bringing life to repurposed heritage buildings, bookshops, and cafes.

KALAM will delve into the intrinsic interconnectedness of Southeast Asia, particularly the Malay Archipelago, and the wider Asian region. As an independent space and platform celebrating regional connectivity, the gathering will explore the evolving literary landscapes of Malaysia and the region. Sessions will delve into the insights and issues in writing, storytelling, literary translation, publishing, and the book industry.

Through engaging conversations and interactive sessions with writers, intellectuals, scholars, publishers, and cultural figures, KALAM aims to rejuvenate the literary landscape of Downtown Kuala Lumpur, while redefining our sense of belonging in the region.

Targeting a diverse audience with an inclusive and multilingual programme, this landmark literary gathering aims to grow into an annual festival of literature and ideas that contributes to the cultural, economic, and social vitality of the city, while renewing and revitalising its historic centre.

KALAM Curators: Pauline Fan, Hafiz Hamzah, Roestam Alias