Malay Language Symposium to Elevate Bahasa Melayu and Civilization to Global Stage

The upcoming International Symposium on Malay Language Aspirations (SAABM) represents a significant endeavor to project the richness of the Malay language and its associated civilization onto the global stage. As highlighted by former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who also serves as the Honorary Patron of the Malay Language Aspirations Association of Malaysia (PABMM), this event is crucial for fostering intellectual dialogue and reinforcing unity in our collective mission to elevate Bahasa Melayu.

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Every time I attend meetings with foreign leaders, if they use their own language, I will continue to use Bahasa Melayu.

Ismail Sabri's emphasis on prioritizing Malay in international engagements is a powerful reminder of its role as a symbol of national identity. His personal commitment, often using Bahasa Melayu when meeting foreign leaders, underscores a broader national sentiment that we must champion our own language if we expect it to be respected internationally. This aligns with Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim's directives for official government and ministry affairs to be conducted in Malay, signaling a concerted effort to embed the language in all spheres of public life.

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If we ourselves do not prioritize this language, it is as if it is being sidelined.

The symposium's theme, "Malay Civilization Shaping the World," signifies an ambitious scope, moving beyond linguistic discussions to encompass the broader cultural and civilizational aspects of the Malay world. This inclusive approach, as articulated by PABMM Chairman Kamarazaman Yacob, aims to create a robust platform for both local and international scholars to engage in meaningful discourse. It's not merely about presenting papers; it's about forging international collaborations that will propel the Malay language and culture forward.

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This symposium is not only a forum for presenting working papers and academic discussions, but also a platform to strengthen international cooperation in the effort to elevate the Malay Language.

From our perspective at Utusan Malaysia, SAABM is more than just an academic conference; it is a vital affirmation of our cultural heritage and a strategic move to ensure its relevance in an increasingly globalized world. While Western media might focus on economic or political narratives, stories like SAABM highlight the deep-seated importance Malaysians place on preserving and promoting their linguistic and cultural identity. The "Malam Puisi Mengukir Bangsa" (Poetry Night Carving a Nation) further exemplifies this commitment, weaving artistic expression into the broader objective of national pride and international recognition.

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This year, the theme brought is much broader and more challenging because it involves Malay civilization as a whole, not just the aspect of language as before.