Bandar Seri Begawan - The integration of literature into the academic curriculum of students in the Science field at secondary level would enable students to grasp the Malay language better and also contribute towards the development of local literature.
This was stated by the Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports; Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Hj Mohammad Hj Daud, during the official opening of the 4th Brunei Writers` Meeting held at the Language and Literature Bureau, Old Airport, Berakas.
Themed Sastera Brunei Rentas Minda Global, it gathered more than 100 participants from the Language and Literature Bureau, government departments and educational institutions, as well as individuals from throughout the country.
In his speech, the minister said that such meetings in the future should include scientists, lawyers, engineers, computer and IT experts, as well as traders and entrepreneurs to discuss literature from their respective fields of expertise.
Literature can be absorbed in any learning domain, such as theatrical knowledge and practical mathematics, added the guest of honour.
He mentioned how Pg Shahbandar Mohd Salleh (Pg Indera Mahkota) Pg Sarmayuda with his poem Syair Rakis in 1840 portrayed universal issues associated with politics, economy, social and education during that time, which are still partly relevant today.
He also spoke of Sultan Ahmad Tajuddin Akhazul Khairi Waddin and his work Rahsia Hidup, followed by Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien who wrote Rampaian Laila Syair, Syair Ash Rajang Hari, Syair Nasihat, Syair Ra jang Jenaka, Syair Perlembagaan Negeri Brunei and Syair Asli Rajang Hari.
Meanwhile, other elite writers who have also contributed to the development of literature and the Malay language in Brunei are HM Salleh, Yura Halim, Shukri Zain, Yahya MS, Badaruddin HO, Adi Rumi, Zairis MS, Muslim Burmat and Noorilham.
Source: www.brudirect.com (14 November 2007)
