A Song of Life: November 2016

In Malaysia, Malay or Bahasa Malaysia (literally known as the language of Malaysia) is recognized as the sole official national language of this country. Also referred to as Bahasa or BM, it is the language spoken by all Malaysians. Since Malaysia is a multi-racial country, knowledge of the Malay language will not only equip its users with the necessary communicative tools that are essential for their everyday interactions but also enable them to gain a better understanding of the culture, tradition, history, and values of this country. Needless to say, this would foster better understanding amongst the various races in this country. Fluency in Malay will also enhance their career in various fields such as in the civil service, education, commerce, engineering, medicine, journalism, politics, arts and sciences.

Words are the building blocks of civilization and hence play a vital role in the construction of society. As such, language has always been linked to one's culture and identity. Since there is an inextricable relationship between nation and language, every nation needs to have a language that marks their identity. As Malaysians, we are proud that Bahasa Malaysia, one of the oldest surviving languages in the world, is the prime mark of identification of our 1Malaysia Nation.

The Majlis Penutupan Bulan Bahasa Kebangsaan Sektor Pendidikan 2016 Peringkat IPG Kampus Tengku Ampuan Afzan (closing ceremony for the National Language month) was held on 24 November 2016. Officiated by the Director of IPG Kampus Tengku Ampuan Afzan, Tuan Haji Abdullah bin Mohd Yusof, this ceremony has turned out to be one of the most memorable events of the year. Amongst the activities in this ceremony were teromba, syair, sajak, pantun, dondang sayang, seloka, pidato, monodrama, choral speaking, and MESTAMU. The objectives of this program were to:

enhance unity and develop a sense of belongingness amongst the races

make all Malaysians proud of their National Language

emphasize on the importance of loving our country through loving our National Language

IPGKTAA lecturers and students took part voluntarily in these activities and their participation has made this ceremony a great success. Below is a series of photos taken that day by our photographer, Encik Alloha bin Awang Teh, in chronological order.