SAABM to Champion Malay Language on Global Stage Through International Symposium
KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 — The Simposium Antarabangsa Aspirasi Bahasa Melayu (SAABM) is set to emerge as a key international platform to elevate the status of the Malay language and civilisation, reinforcing its role as a symbol of national identity and a medium of global discourse.
Former prime minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob said the symposium, scheduled to take place in October, is designed not only to expand academic engagement but also to unify efforts in strengthening the position of Bahasa Melayu at the international level.
Speaking at the launch event held at Menara Aras Raya, he stressed that prioritising the use of Bahasa Melayu in global engagements is essential in reflecting Malaysia’s cultural identity and national pride.
He shared that during his tenure, he consistently used Bahasa Melayu in meetings with foreign leaders, even when they communicated in their own languages, as a way to assert confidence in the nation’s linguistic heritage.
Ismail Sabri also pointed to the stance of Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who has previously called for the use of Bahasa Melayu in official government affairs, reinforcing its importance in administration and governance.
“If we fail to prioritise our own language, we risk marginalising it ourselves,” he said, underscoring the need for consistent usage across all levels, including international platforms.
The event also saw the launch of a book titled “Bahasa dan Peradaban Membina Manusia,” which compiles scholarly papers, articles and viewpoints presented at SAABM between 2024 and 2025, reflecting ongoing intellectual contributions to the development of Malay studies.
Chairman of the Pertubuhan Aspirasi Bahasa Melayu Malaysia, Kamarazaman Yacob, said this year’s symposium carries the theme “Peradaban Melayu Mewajah Dunia,” signalling a broader focus that goes beyond language to encompass the wider dimensions of Malay civilisation.
He explained that the symposium will bring together scholars from Malaysia and abroad to engage in discussions on language, culture and civilisation, while also strengthening international academic and cultural networks.
According to him, SAABM is intended to serve as both an intellectual forum and a strategic platform for collaboration, enabling participants to exchange ideas and build partnerships that support the global advancement of Bahasa Melayu.
“This year’s theme presents a more comprehensive approach, as it highlights the full scope of Malay civilisation rather than focusing solely on linguistic aspects,” he said.
The one-day symposium is scheduled to be held on October 10 at Hotel Seri Pacific, organised through a collaboration between Ikhtisas Kepimpinan Kamarazaman and the Malay Studies and Civilisation Chair named after Ismail Sabri, alongside international partners including Thai Global Business Administration Technological College.
In addition to academic sessions, the programme will also feature a cultural segment titled “Malam Puisi Mengukir Bangsa,” aimed at celebrating literary expression and reinforcing the cultural significance of the Malay language.
Organisers hope the initiative will contribute to long-term efforts in positioning Bahasa Melayu as a globally recognised language of knowledge, culture and civilisation.
-wilayah.com.my
