KUCHING: Strengthening the national language is an important element in achieving a high level of unity in a country.
Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Sarawak director Dr Azizul Ismail said this is especially important in Malaysia, a diverse nation, and even more so in Sarawak, which has greater diversity.
He stressed that unity is necessary for development, as progress cannot last without harmony and good communication.
“If people cannot live in harmony or communicate well, any development built may eventually fail.
“Therefore, internal strength through cooperation and mutual understanding, supported by the use of the national language, is what drives a nation and state towards greater progress,” he said
He said this when officiating at the prize and certificates presentation ceremony in conjunction with National Language Month 2026 (BBK 2026) at Chung Hua Middle School No. 1 here, Wednesday (April 22).
Azizul said that efforts to strengthen the national language should not rest on DBP alone, but require strong support from schools to ensure the agenda is successfully implemented.
At Chung Hua Middle School No. 1, he added that the various national language programmes held there reflect this shared commitment, demonstrating the strong and sincere efforts of teachers and students in ensuring the national language continues to serve as a pillar of national unity.
“On behalf of DBP Sarawak, I would like to extend my highest appreciation and deepest thanks to the school for its strong commitment in organising this meaningful event,” he added.
He said mastery of Bahasa Melayu, alongside co-curricular activities such as public speaking and forums, plays an important role in shaping students’ confidence, character and leadership skills.
“To become future leaders, they must be equipped with various forms of knowledge, including communication skills,” he said.
He added that such programmes also foster awareness and enthusiasm among Sarawakians, especially youth, to uphold the national language without sidelining mother tongues or indigenous languages.
“Learning the national language will not diminish our identity as a people of diverse ethnic and cultural backgrounds,” he added.
Competitions, such as public speaking, poetry recitation and student forum, were held throughout March, drawing active participation from students.
Students who excelled in those competitions will go on to represent the school at this year’s Festival Bahasa dan Sastera in July in Sibu.
Prizes and certificates were presented by Azizul and the school’s principal Lee Chee Beng.
