IPOH: Awareness and appreciation of the national language are among the key elements for fostering a harmonious and united Malaysian society.
Chairman of the Board of Directors of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Datuk Dr Anwar Ridhwan said that this is because language serves as a powerful tool for unity among Malaysians, who come from diverse backgrounds.
Anwar said various programs with an inclusive and comprehensive approach have been and will continue to be implemented throughout the 2024 Language and Literature Month (BBK).
"Activities include seminars, discussions, lectures, forums, pantun competitions, essay writing contests, and various other competitions involving multiple sectors, state governments, and agencies to ensure a vibrant and enthusiastic response from the Malaysian public.
"As such, I urge and sincerely hope that all attendees representing various sectors and organisations will continue to support and be ready to collaborate in programs organised by DBP, especially those held in conjunction with BBK 2024.
"This commitment and dedication aim to ensure that all programs and services provided by DBP consistently exceed expectations for the Malaysian people," he said.
Anwar said this in his speech at the National Language Month 2024 at Ipoh Convention Centre here, today. The event was launched by Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
His speech was read out by DBP director-general Dr Hazami Jahari.
The national laureate said it is essential to uphold DBP's responsibility as the nation's language planning body, so it remains respected and held in high regard by society, carrying a distinguished and excellent reputation.
"The empowerment of the national language, literature, and culture is crucial to supporting the government's current leadership narrative.
"DBP sincerely hopes for continued solid and steadfast support from the country's leadership.
"This support is intended to ensure that efforts to elevate the noble and dignified Malaysian civilization within the country are successfully achieved," he said.
Anwar said since its establishment on June 22, 1956, DBP has consistently implemented various strategies and approaches through a range of language programmes and activities to promote and popularise the Malay language among the diverse and multifaceted Malaysian population.
He said BBK is a continuation of the "mass movement" related to language and literature that began with the National Language Week, which was launched on Jan 30, 1960.
"This movement was further strengthened through the Love Our Language Movement launched on Dec 11, 1987, the National Language Movement for the Private Sector, the National Language and Literature Month (BBSN) from 1999 to 2004, and was rebranded as National Language Month (BBK) in 2009.
"The main goal of the National Language Month programme is to foster a deep love and appreciation for the national language.
"Love for the national language needs to be strengthened, regardless of educational background, race, ethnicity, or regional boundaries, to demonstrate loyalty and pride in our beloved homeland," he said.