Gapena expresses dismay over declining use of Malay language
Its leader one, Prof Datuk Wira Dr Abdul Latiff Abu Bakar said Gapena would pursue plans to strengthen the Malay language as the national language and the bastion of the national identity and nationhood.
"Bahasa Melayu is not only a symbol of national identity but also a platform to unite the people.
"The resolve to uphold Bahasa Melayu requires commitment and positive attitude," he told reporters after opening a seminar on literature and culture in national education by Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin here today.
Abdul Latiff claimed that many Malaysians neglected the Malay language as they were influenced by liberation and human rights.
On a RM500,000 allocation approved by the government for Gapena, he said Gapena would use the money hold the 1Malaysia writing camp involving all communities in an effort to churn out literary works in the Malay language.
"Gapena will also be producing a 30-minute drama entitled 'Tolol Bahasa' (ludicrous language) to poke fun at Malaysians who have the tendency to use English and bazaar Malay in their daily activities," he said. — Bernama
