KUCHING: The Malay language must be embraced in both its written and spoken forms to effectively preserve culture and support nation-building, says Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian.
Dr Sim emphasised that the phrase ‘Bahasa jiwa bangsa’ (language is the soul of the nation) carries deep cultural meaning and must be truly understood, not just repeated.
“The true power of language lies in clear communication. It must be effective so that people understand because if others can’t understand you, then your way of speaking defeats its purpose.
“Which is why the Malay language, our national language, is especially important in Malaysia, and that’s why it’s essential for us to develop both competence and proficiency in it.
“It reflects our unity, reminds us of our roots, and shows just how vital language is in shaping our nation, because after all, again, language is communication,” he said.
He said this when officiating the closing ceremony of the Sarawak-Level Language and Literature Festival 2025 at Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Sarawak here today.
He added that over the past three years, many students have actively taken part in Malay language competitions, which help reinforce the use of Malay language among younger generations.
“In Sarawak alone, there are more than 222 Chinese primary schools, with around 60,000 students. Out of that, 25,000 are non-Chinese, Bumiputera, Malay, Dayak, Orang Ulu, and so on.
“This shows that regardless of background, we all see the importance of being proficient in bahasa.
“In Malaysia, it’s essential especially for the sake of nation-buillding,” he said, and thanked parents and the wider community for supporting Chinese schools.
Meanwhile, DBP Sarawak Branch director Dr Azizul Ismail, representing DBP Malaysia director-general Dr Hazami Jahari, urged the younger generation today, who will one day inherit the nation’s leadership, to take pride in the national language.
“This commitment is crucial for the continuity of the national language, which serves as a unifying tool for all of us from various races and ethnicities, especially here in the state of Sarawak.
“The diverse range of programmes in this festival has proven that the national language can play a meaningful role across all levels of education and age groups.
“The participation of various segments of Malaysian society, especially students in Sarawak, reflects our shared commitment to keeping the national language and literature relevant while fostering unity and nurturing young talent,” he said when
The festival, held from July 7 to 9, was successfully organised through the collaboration of co-organisers, namely DBP Sarawak Branch, the Sarawak State Education Department, and the United Association of the Board of Management of Chinese Private Secondary Schools Sarawak.
The event also celebrated the achievements of Sekolah Menengah Chung Hua No. 1 Kuching, which will represent Sarawak in the national-level student forum competition in Sabah.
The school, which has held the state champion title since 2023, also brought home the championship trophy again this year.
