KUCHING: Poetry took centre stage as a powerful expression of patriotism, cultural identity, and national pride during the 2025 Sarawak-level 39th Independence Poetry Recitation Competition.
DBP Sarawak Branch director Dr Azizul Ismail, who officiated the closing ceremony, said the event plays a vital role in shaping creative and innovative individuals who may become future leaders.
“Such events also help to strengthen the spirit of patriotism among the people of the state, as poetry is an art form that conveys emotion and meaning through spoken words
“I am also confident that the beauty of art can shape a leader’s character, especially among the younger generation.
“On this occasion, I sincerely hope that representatives from government agencies and the private sector will collaborate with DBP in identifying and nurturing talent, particularly among young poets, to help shape a generation grounded in strong identity and integrity,” he said during the event here today (July 19).
Sarawak Literary Writers Association (PEKASA) president Dayang Azizah Mohd Salleh echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the programme is not merely a contest of voice or style.
“It is a platform to voice out the spirit of struggle, to revive the pulse of history, and to nurture a deep love for the homeland through meaningful verses.
“It is on this stage that the voices of the youth echo, the voice of the motherland is defended, and the voice of past fighters is revived.
“Today, let us all realise that poetry is not just an art form, but a soul that brings meaning, inviting us to reflect deeply within ourselves,” she said.
For the record, the competition was jointly organised by DBP in collaboration with PEKASA and the National Writers Association Federation (GAPENA), featuring ten participants from various parts of Sarawak.
Emerging as champion was Mohamad Daud Ahmad from Bintulu, who recited Kita Berpencak Lagi Ogos Ini by Shamsul Idzam Jamil and received RM1,000, DBP books, and a certificate.
As the winner, he will represent Sarawak at the National-Level Independence Poetry Recitation Competition at Malacca on August 14.
Meanwhile, Khalid Husseine Tuah from Limbang-Lawas secured second place with his performance of Degup Nurani by Mohamad Saleeh Rahamad, earning him RM700, DBP books, and a certificate.
In third place was Syafaat Zainal Abidin from Kuching, who recited Naluri Pewaris Bangsa by Zainal Mohd Jais and received RM500, DBP books, and a certificate.
