By : Siti Nur`Ain Feisal

Editor : Nik Hafzaini Nik Hassan 

SERDANG – Dekad Bahasa Kebangsaan programme at Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM) was held virtually from 7 October 2021 to 9 February 2022. This celebration was not only filled with programmes but an effort to inculcate and deepen the appreciation for the national language, Bahasa Melayu.

Dekad Bahasa Kebangsaan programme has been able to fulfil the university’s aspiration by providing greater impact to empower Bahasa Melayu. In this effort, various activities related to language were carried out by UPM through the Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication (FBMK). This is an initiative-taking step towards empowering Bahasa Melayu. 

This programme was filled with various linguistic activities such as a forum entitled “Gagasan dan Cabaran dalam Pengukuhan Jati Diri Rakyat Malaysia”, Semarak Pantun Bahasa Kebangsaan UPM 2021 competition, Pidato Bahasa Jiwa Bangsa competition, Language Clinic, and Poem Recital.

These activities were carried out to deepen the appreciation for the national language and showcase the beauty and uniqueness of Bahasa Melayu among students and youths.

The programme, which was conducted at UPM main campus Serdang, also involved the community from Bintulu campus. Through these language and literature activities, it will strengthen the unity ties to the UPM community.   

Dekad Bahasa, organised by UPM in collaboration with the Institute of Language and Literature is seen as a way to empower Bahasa Melayu, producing reputable scholars with outstanding academic writing and significant findings for community well-being. This is also an effort towards producing research and writings in Bahasa Melayu as the language of knowledge hence upholding its supremacy.    

The key of this programme is to develop the interest among students and UPM community to jointly uphold the national language. Each individual should play their role to support this noble effort.

The ceremony was held in hybrid at the Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication, UPM on 9 February 2022. The ceremony has a live coverage at UPM Facebook which was attended by representatives from the Institute of Language and Literature, University Management Committee, faculty deans, Faculty of Modern Languages and Communication management committee, UPM community.  

The ceremony was officiated by UPM Vice-Chancellor’s representative Prof. Dr. Nazamid Saari, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation) Universiti Putra Malaysia.

The commitment of the university management will remain robust to ensure Bahasa Melayu as a high language of knowledge continues to be empowered. Thus, Bahasa Melayu will continue to be used in information sharing to the highest level and internationally.   

Date of Input: 28/02/2022 | Updated: 14/03/2022 | suziana.wil