BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE status of Malay literary works and those around the region should be elevated as it has potential to break into international stage, said the Permanent Secretary (Media and Cabinet) at the Prime Minister’s Office.

During the opening ceremony of the 18th Malay Literati Conference, Hj Mohd Rozan Dato Paduka Hj Mohd Yunos in his welcome speech explained that the Sultanate has produced several literary artists such as Yahya M/S, Shukri Zain, Adi Rumi, Badarudin H O Yura Halim and Muslim Burmat among others.

He urged the relevant authorities to consider the establishment of an educational institution or programmes for creative writings that would be recognised with certification such as diplomas and bachelor degrees in a bid to produce creative writers.

“This will bring forth writers that are able to produce literary works that can be our country’s aspirations in the development of our minds and character of our society,” said Hj Mohd Rozan.

More should be done by seasoned literary artists and also their readers so a higher level of appreciation can be fostered, he added.

“If we look at this in a wider context, their works are only appreciated by those who understand the language being used in their works. I believe that their works can be more well-known if appreciated by all layers of society if it is translated into other languages,” said the permanent secretary.

While reading and a lack of understanding of the purpose of their works could be other factors why their works do not seem so appealing to other members of society, he urged the literary artists to continue their usage of Malay as it is the country’s identity.

“We must be proud to use Bahasa Melayu in our literary works as without our mother tongue, a writer would not be able to fully express their true selves and what they are trying to convey to its full potential,” he said.

He also urged the literary artists to reap the full benefits of today’s technology and social media to develop their works.

“Writers must always strive to improve the quality of their works through readings, approach technological advances, and keep up with the current developments of the world.”

The opening ceremony also saw the presentation of a keynote speech by one of Brunei’s prominent literary figures.

Yang Berhormat Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Yahya Hj Ibrahim entitled, Semangat Kebangsaan dan Cintakan Tanah Air Dalam Syair-Syair Al-Marhum Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien.

The Brunei Times