SINTOK, 19 November 2024: Universiti Utara Malaysia (UUM) launched the Sudut Sasterawan Negara at Sultanah Bahiyah Library yesterday, aiming to cultivate a deeper appreciation for local literature, particularly among students.
The Malaysian National Laureate Award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of Malay language literature in Malaysia. The first such award took place in 1981, with the distinguished honour going to Keris Mas, also known as (Dr) Kamaludin Muhammad.
The Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Dato’ Dr Mohd Foad Sakdan, said literature plays a crucial role in illustrating the culture, values, and identity of a nation.
“Who among us is unfamiliar with notables of national laureate, such as Prof. Emeritus Dato’ Dr Shahnon Ahmad, Dato’ Seri Dr A. Samad Said, Dato’ Dr Zurinah Hassan, and Dato’ Dr Usman Awang, who have undeniably enriched the literary landscape?
“They produce works that not only capture the exquisite beauty of language and the art of writing but also articulate humanitarian, social, and political issues that resonate across time.
“The efforts and sacrifices of literary icons must continue to be celebrated. For instance, the Sultanah Bahiyah Library has set up the National Laureate Corner to honour and preserve their works while recognising the achievements of literary figures,” he said during the launch of the Sudut Sasterawan Negara.
He further reiterated that the library serves as the vital core for the development and survival of the literary world.
“Hence, this initiative not only honours their services and sacrifices but also inspires the younger generation and literature enthusiasts to cherish and continue the legacy they left behind. Additionally, it seeks to revitalise the reading culture campaign at the Institution of Higher Education (IHE) level.
“The reading habits of Malaysians remain relatively low compared to countries in Asean. Therefore, I welcome this effort, which is considered a significant stride toward cultivating a reading culture among our students,” he said.
He views the Sudut Sasterawan Negara as a resource and research centre for students, scholars, and literary enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the works of national writers.
“I fervently hope that this effort can be benefitted from and employed as a symbol of our gratitude towards the writers who have tirelessly championed and strived to enhance the dignity of Malay literature,” he said.
Meanwhile, the Chief Librarian, Prof. Dr Che Azlan Taib, said literature by nature is linked to humanity and society, with its primary function being the cultivation of humanism in human existence.
“In the context of secondary education, the subject of Malay literature was first introduced in 1957. The objective was to empower students to assimilate fundamental aspects and values related to spirituality, humanity, society, culture, and citizenship, fostering a sense of pride and love for their homeland within the vision of national culture.
“In today’s society, which is grounded in science and technology, literature holds significant value. Without literature, developed society loses an important element of its existence,” he said.
According to Berita Harian Online dated 30 May 2023, the Prime Minister, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, expressed his concern about the disinterest of some students in exploring literature, language, and culture, particularly the works of local figures.
Therefore, he said that the initiative to establish the National Laureate Corner at the university is among the preliminary efforts to cultivate an appreciation for local literature, especially among university students.
“The organisation of this event is very meaningful as an initiative to honour and highlight the works of national laureate figures, aiming to enhance awareness and foster interest among campus denizens, particularly students in the field of literature.
“I hope that the Sudut Sasterawan Negara, which houses 340 materials, will serve as a central hub for university students and the local community to learn more about the works and ideas of the National Laureate, facilitated by the support of all parties,” he said.
He urged the campus community to utilise the corner as a platform to discuss information and further develop the noble values inherent in this literary masterpiece to a greater degree.
May the Sultanah Bahiyah Library evolve to become a literary resource hub that offers access to a variety of quality literary works, enabling students to explore and appreciate the world of literature more profoundly.
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