Kuala Belait– The need towards strengthening the Malay language as the nation`s most valuable cultural heritage has become vital in the context of globalisation.
This was highlighted in a language forum held yesterday morning at the Municipal Hall, Kuala Belait, which was held in conjunction with the 23rd National Day celebration.
Present as the guest of honour to officiate the event was Deputy Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Dato Paduka Hj Dani bin Hj Ibrahim.
Also attending the forum were senior government officials from the Belait District, Brunei Shell Petroleum personnel, village heads, village consultative council members, school principals, as well as representatives from youth associations in Belait.
Organised by the Malay and Language Literature Bureau, the forum, themed `Loving and Upholding Malay Language`, was aimed to enhance awareness of the impact of globalisation on the Malay language.
The forum believes that cooperation between Malay language based countries such as Brunei Darussalam, Malaysia and Indonesia should be enhanced and it is hoped by signing the `Joint Communiqué` in its efforts to prioritise the Malay language, which will remain intact and establish itself in the middle ofthe globalisation storm.
Meanwhile, speaking as one of the panelist at the event was Dr Mataim bin Bakar, Director of the Malay and Language Literature Bureau.
Dr Mataim said it is important that we have confidence in the language to experience a bright future in various communication layers and knowledge disciplines.
He said currently the Language Literature Bureau, through its core services which are language and literature, has played an active role in language planning.
What is vital is the attitude of the Malay nationals towards their native language and their ability to be exemplary models to others in attracting them to learn Malay, he added.
"For example, we should take the language development in China, Japan and Korea, who are able to create a culture based on its own character, while adapting to other nations` knowledge," he said.
He believed that efforts by the Brunei Arts and Literature Bureau, including yesterday`s forum, will be part of the crucial steps to infuse and create community awareness on the importance of loving and upholding the Malay language. Also present on the panel were Hj Mohd Zaini bin Omar from Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd and Teo Wee Wee from St John`s School.
The forum concluded with a question and answer session.
Source: www.brudirect.com (1 Juni 2007)