KUCHING: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) is continuing to play a vital role in strengthening the Malay language and preserving the rich linguistic heritage of the state’s diverse communities.
Over the decades, the institution which is marking its 70th anniversary this year has expanded its responsibilities beyond language development, embracing cultural preservation, literary advancement, digital innovation and educational outreach programmes throughout Sarawak.
DBP Sarawak director Dr Azizul Ismail said the branch’s proudest achievement lies in its contributions to language development, community engagement and literary recognition.
“We have developed dictionaries for various ethnic languages, including Iban, Sarawak Malay, Vaie and Melanau Mukah. These efforts are important not only for preserving ethnic languages but also for supporting the development of the national language,” he said in an interview held in conjunction with DBP’s 70th anniversary celebration today.
According to Dr Azizul, DBP Sarawak has also organised numerous programmes involving students, teachers and local communities, including forums, educational festivals and literary activities aimed at encouraging greater appreciation of language and literature.
He noted that initiatives such as the Premier Book Award, organised with support from the Sarawak Premier’s Office, have provided an important platform for discovering and recognising local writing talent.
On the role of technology, Dr Azizul said DBP has embraced digital transformation through platforms such as the Malay Language Reference Centre (PRPM), which provides access to terminology, definitions, proverbs and language references for users nationwide.
“We cannot stop the advancement of technology, including artificial intelligence. Instead, we must move together with technological developments and use them to strengthen language learning and dissemination,” he said.
Dr Azizul stressed that the Malay language remains a key instrument of unity in Sarawak, connecting communities from different ethnic and cultural backgrounds.
“Mastering the national language is a necessity, but preserving ethnic languages is equally important because they represent identity and heritage. Both can coexist without marginalising one another,” he added.
To attract younger generations, DBP Sarawak has diversified its programmes through storytelling competitions, pantun contests, digital exploration activities, music performances, theatre productions and social media engagement.
He said theatre remains an effective medium for conveying historical narratives and cultural values, citing productions inspired by Sarawak heroes such as Rentap as examples of how language and heritage can be promoted simultaneously.
Looking ahead, Dr Azizul said DBP Sarawak aims to remain a dynamic and inclusive institution by introducing user-friendly programmes, strengthening collaborations with educational institutions and government agencies, and encouraging greater youth participation.
