In Indonesian formal and ceremonial speeches—especially at official, diplomatic, or cultural events—it’s not uncommon for speakers to open with a pantun, a traditional poetic form meant to entertain, connect, or set the tone of the message. While these rhyming quatrains add charm and cultural depth, they also pose a unique challenge for interpreters: How do you interpret a pantun into English—instantly, accurately, and gracefully?

This article explores practical tips and strategies to help interpreters prepare for interpreting pantun in real-time, without losing its essence, rhythm, or intent.

What Is a Pantun?

A pantun is a four-line Indonesian poem with a rhyme scheme of ABAB. The first two lines are usually symbolic or metaphorical (the sampiran), and the last two lines deliver the actual message (the isi). Here’s a simple example:

Bunga mawar di tepi taman,
Harumnya semerbak sepanjang hari.
Indahnya alam harus dijaga,
Agar lestari untuk generasi nanti.

The Challenge in Interpretation

Pantun often includes:
– Cultural references
– Figurative language and metaphors
– Wordplay or rhyme
– Humor or poetic rhythm

Interpreting this literally can confuse international audiences. But omitting it can miss a culturally meaningful moment. The key lies in balancing accuracy, clarity, and poetic intent.

Tips for Interpreting Pantun into English

1. Focus on the Message, Not the Rhyme

Don’t worry about maintaining rhyme in your interpretation. Your priority is to convey the speaker’s intent, especially the isi (message). The sampiran can be simplified or even skipped briefly if time is tight, as long as you deliver the main message effectively.

Example:
“Indahnya alam harus dijaga,
Agar lestari untuk generasi nanti.”
Interpretation:
“Nature’s beauty must be preserved,
For generations yet to arrive.”

2. Prepare Common Pantun Themes Ahead of Time

Many pantun used in speeches follow predictable themes: humility, greetings, gratitude, or humor. Familiarize yourself with common pantun structures and prepare stock interpretations for: Welcoming, Apologizing, Introducing oneself, Opening a talk, and Giving thanks.

3. Use Culturally Equivalent Expressions

You can replace a pantun with a proverb, idiom, or poetic phrase in English that captures the same feeling. This keeps the tone while adapting the cultural context.

Example:
“Harimau mati meninggalkan belang, manusia mati meninggalkan nama.”
Literal: “A tiger dies leaving its stripes; a person dies leaving their name.”
Interpretation: “A person is remembered by the legacy they leave behind.”

4. Maintain the Spirit and Tone

If the pantun is humorous, keep it light in tone. If it’s formal or respectful, mirror that mood in English. Even if you simplify the wording, your delivery should reflect the intentional tone of the speaker.

5. Stay Calm and Confident

Interpreting pantun can be intimidating, especially in formal settings. But remember—audiences value clarity over poetic perfection. If needed, you can preface your interpretation with a brief comment like: “The speaker just shared a traditional poetic verse—here’s the meaning…” This gives you a second to gather your thoughts and manage expectations.

You can also consider this:

Create a personal pantun bank with both the original lines and your prepared English interpretations. Practice interpreting them aloud and adjust for flow, tone, and clarity. This will become an invaluable resource, especially for assignments involving VIPs, ministries, or diplomatic events.

In conclusion, pantun adds beauty and tradition to Indonesian speeches—but for interpreters, it requires quick thinking, cultural sensitivity, and a flexible mindset. By preparing ahead and practicing smart strategies, interpreters can confidently render pantun in English while honoring its spirit and function.

If you have any suggestions for our upcoming articles, feel free to share them in the comments! 

Cheers,
Ni Luh Windiari, HPI-Certified Interpreter & Legal Translator
Bahasa Interpreters, Your Indonesian Interpreters in Bali and beyond