Bandar Seri Begawan - The support of parents, schools, institutions and the government is important in helping to promote the Malay language.
This was said by Director of Language and Literature (DBP) Director Dr Mataim bin Bakar as the guest of honour yesterday during a prize presentation for a writing competition for Mekar Magazine, Juara Pelajar 2007.
He urged those present to take pride in the Malay language as it is "part of our culture and heritage".
He also noted that a portion of Malays is more comfortable to use a foreign language in their everyday conversations, including with their family members.
Meanwhile, the competition saw some 968 essays submitted by students from 112 primary schools and lower secondary schools.
In Category A, the winner was Hamiz Abdulhadi Haji Osman, who received $250 in cash prize, while first and second runners-up Abdul Hadi Zulhigman Abdul Rahim and Nuraziah Sahri received $150 and $100 respectively.
All winners also received certificates of participation, plaques and books.
Five consolation prizes of $50 were also given away.
Meanwhile, in Category B, the winner was Shakira Edora Fauzi, who received $300 in cash prize, while first and second runners-up Siti Norfaizah Abdullah and Aqilah Haji Hashim received $200 and $150 respectively.
All winners also received certificates of participation, plaques and books.
Five consolation prizes of $75 were also given away. Chung Ching Primary School was awarded the Best School in both categories, and received a certificate.
Meanwhile, the guest of honour also launched several local publications.
Source: www.brudirect.com (22 November 2007)
