DEPUTY Prime Minister II Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof opened the 2026 Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Creative Writing Awards with an impassioned call for Malaysians to recognise the central role of language and literature in cultivating intellect, ethics, and cultural continuity.
At the Balai Budaya Tun Syed Nasir, Wisma DBP, Fadillah invoked the Quranic verse from Surah al-Qalam, “Nun. By the pen and what they inscribe,” emphasising the pen’s enduring power as an instrument of knowledge and civilisation.
“It reminds us that writing is not merely a string of words, but a profound responsibility to shape understanding, values, and direction for our society and nation,” he said, highlighting the moral and societal weight of the written word.
Referencing the Prophet Muhammad’s analogy of the virtuous of knowledge as the full moon among stars, the Deputy Prime Minister described literature as a beacon illuminating society.
He framed the awards ceremony as “not just a recognition ceremony, but a manifestation of the nation’s commitment to uphold language, literature, and national writing as the pillars of nation-building.”
Fadillah praised DBP for its consistent efforts to foster literary development and nurture emerging talent, offering a fertile space for the exchange of ideas and critical thought.
“Literature is not merely a vehicle for artistic expression; it serves as a medium for thought, a recorder of our times, and a platform for the intellectual discourse of our people,” he said, adding that literary works faithfully document the pulse of society, contemporary challenges, and the aspirations of future generations.
He stressed that national progress should not be measured solely in material terms but by the strength of citizens’ values and moral fibre.
“This is where literature becomes significant — it shapes people who think, act ethically, and possess identity and integrity.” He added that creative writing preserves history and social consciousness, ensuring the intellectual honesty and maturity of a nation endure over time.
In the current era of information saturation and pervasive social media, Fadillah urged discernment, underscoring that literature informed by critical, ethical thought offers guidance, reflection, and moral grounding.
Citing Tun Ahmad Sarji Abdul Hamid, he said: “The strength of a nation lies in knowledge, cultural preservation, and firm moral values.”
He said that rapid technological advancement and globalisation challenge the preservation of local identity.
Without attention to values and culture, materialism and the uncritical adoption of foreign practices risk weakening the nation’s soul.
“Language and literature remain the most effective tools for educating hearts, cultivating awareness, and fostering societal cohesion,” he said.
Calling on writers and literary figures to act as mediators and conscientious critics, Fadillah encouraged constructive engagement to counter polarisation of thought and emotion.
He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting creative writing by nurturing talent, expanding publishing avenues, and strengthening public appreciation for national literary heritage.
Fadillah then announced the continuation of the DBP Creative Writing Competition for 2026 and congratulated all winners and closed with a traditional poem celebrating the enduring legacy of language and literature.
The ceremony reinforced Malaysia’s dedication to ensuring that language, literature, and creative expression remain central to national identity, cultural resilience, and the development of a thoughtful, ethical citizenry. - February 10, 2026
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