Indonesian wins Taiwan migrant literature award

2015/08/06

A caregiver from Indonesia won the 2015 Taiwan Literature Award for Migrants Aug. 1, earning a cash prize of NT$100,000 (US$3,159) for her vivid portrayal of immigrant workers in Taiwan.

“Potret di Balik Bingkai Kasa Formosa,” or “Images Beyond the Frame of Formosa,” by Dwiita Vita earned the jury’s favor for its rich tapestry comprising the trials and tribulations of workers from Southeast Asia.

One of the judges, celebrated novelist Chu Tien-hsin, said the book was her first choice right from the get-go. “I am impressed with the writer’s composure and maturity in relating these stories. Even more notable is her ability to rise above a self-centered perspective and address issues faced by other people.”

Pham Hung-hiep, a Vietnamese doctoral student at Taipei City-based Chinese Culture University, was second place-getter with his moving portrait of a mother awaiting the return of her son from overseas. He picked up the Jury Award along with NT$80,000.

Launched in 2014, TLAM is open to all migrant workers, as well as new immigrants and their children in Taiwan.

Submissions for the second edition began in March, attracting 181 submissions spanning poems, songs and stories written in Indonesian, Tagalog, Thai and Vietnamese, according to award organizer Chang Cheng of Brilliant Time, a Southeast Asia-themed bookstore in New Taipei City.

“A new feature this year is the addition of a youth jury, comprising eight local students of immigrant parents,” Chang said. “They offer valuable insights into these works based on their personal experiences and demonstrate great pride in their own identity.

“I am overjoyed to see the positive transformation in Taiwan’s immigrant community.”

Echoing Chang’s remarks, Chu said this year’s TLAM reflects the depth of immigrant experiences in Taiwan society. “They may not all be agreeable and pleasing, but as readers, we must face these stories squarely and see the truth of ourselves.”

The TLAM awards ceremony is scheduled for Aug. 30 at National Taiwan Museum in Taipei City.

Source: Taiwan Today (http://taiwantoday.tw/ct.asp?xItem=233352&ctNode=413)