Umar Al-Malqan strengthens national knowledge and literary culture

Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) has reinforced the nation's culture of knowledge and literature with the launch of "Umar Al-Malqan," the latest work by National Laureate Datuk Dr. Anwar Ridhwan. The book was unveiled at the Kuala Lumpur International Book Fair (PBAKL) 2026, held at the World Trade Centre Kuala Lumpur.

The book launch was preceded by a "Meet the National Laureate" session, gathering academics, students, literary figures, and book enthusiasts. Journalist and media analyst Syed Munawar Syed Mustar moderated a discussion delving into the novel's themes, setting, and significance within the context of literature and societal thought development. "Umar Al-Malqan" centers on heroism, loyalty, and struggle, creatively merging global literary traditions with Malay historical and cultural experiences, embodying Malay-Islamic heroism rooted in honor, courage, and wisdom.

UPNM's Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic and International), Professor Ts. Dr. Norhana Abdul Halim, officiated the launch. She described the publication as a testament to UPNM's commitment to expanding higher education institutions' roles as centers for knowledge, thought, and civilization. The university aims to cultivate individuals who are not only professionally excellent but also possess strong historical awareness, identity, and humanitarian values.

Norhana expressed gratitude to UPNM's Language Centre and Press for their continuous efforts in strengthening academic publishing. She highlighted UPNM's pride in Anwar Ridhwan's latest contribution, following his previous works "Orang-Orang Kecil" and "Yang Menjelma dan Menghilang." "Umar Al-Malqan," described by the laureate as a "metadaptation," is rich with values such as heroism, a trait strongly associated with UPNM, alongside family, religion, knowledge, love, and loyalty. It also thoroughly explores historical and warfare tactics. Norhana believes the novel, authored by an experienced and respected figure, will offer a significant reading experience, particularly in character development for readers, including the university community.

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This work, described by the National Laureate as a 'metadaptation,' is rich with various values including heroism, which is very synonymous with UPNM, as well as values of family, religion, knowledge, love, and loyalty, and also thoroughly touches on aspects of history and warfare tactics.