Literature Vital To Development Of Civilisation - Fadhlina

PUTRAJAYA, July 10 (Bernama) -- High quality works of literature should be viewed as vital platforms in the development of civilisation and not viewed as a biennial achievement, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.

Speaking at the presentation of the Premier Literature Award of Malaysia (HSPM) 2021/2022 today, she stressed that literary works not only reflect the history and thoughts of a people, but should also be a part of educating youth through literature in school.

“The works that win the HSPM have been included in the Literature Component text and will be vital material in introducing quality literature to our children,” she said in the presence of her deputy, Wong Kah Woh,  National Laureate Datuk Dr Anwar Ridhwan, who is also chairman of the Dewan Bahasa and Pustaka (DBP) Board of Directors, Education director-general Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad and DBP director-general Dr Hazami Jahari.

Fadhlina also said at a media conference later that her ministry was considering to digitise recognised works so that they can be accessed by the public.

“I think that this is among the efforts we are always considering based on the current situation. At the same time, it requires a huge commitment from all parties to ensure that whatever methods or technology used, the works are still original, of quality and can nurture local literature,” she added.

-- BERNAMA