KUCHING: Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Cawangan Sarawak held the Majlis Lestari Bahasa 2025 in the effort to recognise the efforts of various agencies in the state.
Daro assemblyman Safiee Ahmad officiated at the event which took place on Friday evening.
He praised DBP Sarawak’s ongoing efforts to promote the Malay language despite the unique challenges of the state.
“In a vast and geographically complex state like Sarawak, collaboration with external parties is essential.
“I hope DBP Sarawak will continue to explore innovative methods and partnerships, especially as we face the realities of rapid technological change, including the rise of artificial intelligence,” he said.
He also reminded all stakeholders to approach language programmes with cultural sensitivity, noting that “our approach must be as the Malay proverb says, ‘seperti menarik rambut di dalam
tepung, rambut tidak putus, tepung tidak berserak’.”
In his welcoming remarks, director of DBP Sarawak, Dr Azizul Ismail expressed his gratitude to all strategic partners and emphasised the importance of continued cooperation.
“We are fortunate to be in Sarawak, where support from the state government and various agencies enables us to carry out language and literary programmes effectively.
“This evening is about recognising that support and reinforcing the partnerships that make our work possible,” he said.
This year’s event also saw the introduction of the ‘Tokoh Lestari Bahasa’ award, aimed at honouring individuals who have made notable contributions to the field of language advocacy in the state.
The inaugural recipients were Jais Sahok and Zasran Abdullah.
In addition, the ‘Tinta Warta DBP’ award was presented to media personality Rudi Affendi Khalik, in recognition of his consistent support and contributions to DBP Sarawak through ideas, perspectives, and media coverage.
The ceremony included a poetry recitation, a video presentation, and a formal dinner.
Representatives from government departments, universities, media outlets, and non-goverental organisations (NGOs) were also present to mark the occasion.
