Poets and Writers Preserve Societal Conscience, Says Minister

Poets and writers bear a significant responsibility to create works that safeguard the conscience of society, stated Minister in the Prime Minister's Department (Religious Affairs), Senator Dr. Zulkifli Hasan. He asserted that the verses of poetry, filled with truth, can convey messages that lengthy speeches cannot articulate. "Good poetry is not merely a beautiful arrangement of words. Good poetry is a mirror of the soul of the era. It captures human anxieties, voices hopes, offers gentle admonishment, and guides with wisdom," he said.

Dr. Zulkifli made these remarks during a program organized by the National Writers Association of Malaysia (PENA) titled 'Malam Baca Puisi Pena- Pesta Buku Antarabangsa Kuala Lumpur (PBAKL) 2026,' which carried the theme 'Kata Puisi adalah Cinta' (Poetic Words are Love). The event, held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur, was a collaboration with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), Gabungan Persatuan Penulas Nasional Malaysia (GAPENA), Majlis Buku Kebangsaan Malaysia (MBKM), the Ministry of Education, and Perbadanan Kota Buku (PKB).

He further elaborated on the historical significance of the written word in Islamic civilization, noting that its progress was not solely achieved through conquest but also through the pen, ink, and knowledge. "In the Islamic tradition, words hold a very noble position. The first revelation was a command to read. It is therefore not surprising that scholars, poets, and intellectuals throughout history chose writing and poetry as a medium to convey wisdom to society," he added.

Addressing PENA's function, Dr. Zulkifli described the association as a think tank for authors, a meeting ground for intellectuals, and a long-standing bastion defending the dignity of the Malay language and literature. "In the ever-changing currents of time, PENA continues to stand as a shade tree nurturing the nation's tradition of knowledge, creativity, and thought. As the world becomes increasingly noisy with information explosions and technological sophistication, PENA reminds us that true progress is not measured solely by machine intelligence but also by human refinement and wisdom. A language preserved with love will birth a dignified nation. Literature nurtured with knowledge will produce great-souled societies," he stated.

Dr. Zulkifli also extended his appreciation and congratulations to PENA for receiving RM1 million in funding for the PENA MADANI publication project. "I see this allocation not just as financial support, but as a great trust to continue developing the nation's treasure trove of knowledge and literature. It is a trust to produce works that are not only beautiful in language but also noble in meaning; works that are not only read but contemplated, not only felt but understood," he concluded.