KUALA LUMPUR, 11 October — Malam Puisi Mengukir Bangsa, a prestigious literary event held in conjunction with the National Decade Celebration Month, honoured the contributions of prominent figures in the world of Malay language and literature.

The late national literary icon, Dato’ Usman Awang, was posthumously awarded the title of "Tokoh Mengukir Bangsa (Distinguished Poet)", in recognition of his lasting impact on the world of poetry and his role in shaping national identity. The award was received by his daughter, Puan Haslina Usman, who expressed her gratitude for the continued appreciation of her late father's legacy. Usman Awang’s works remain celebrated in literary circles as enduring expressions of humanity, compassion, and unity across generations.

The event also celebrated the achievements of YBhg. Prof. Ir. Ts. Dr. Mohamed Thariq bin Haji Hameed Sultan, Director of UPM Press, who was awarded the “Ikon Mengukir Bangsa Award (Writing and Publishing)” in tribute to his leadership in promoting scholarly publishing in the Malay language, particularly in internationally indexed journals. YBhg. Associate Professor Ts. Dr. Jessica Ong Hai Liaw from the National Defence University of Malaysia (UPNM) received the “Ikon Mengukir Bangsa Award (Language and Unity)” for her initiatives in encouraging unity and inclusivity through language, educational outreach, and the creative arts.

The awards were presented by YB Dato’ Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, the 9th Prime Minister of Malaysia, in a grand ceremony held at the Royale Chulan Hotel, Kuala Lumpur.

Organised by the Malaysian Malay Language Aspirations Organisation (PABMM) under the theme “The Malay Language Elevating ASEAN”, the event was supported by several regional and academic institutions, including Ikhtisas Kepimpinan Kamarazaman (IKK), Asia Lecturers and Teachers Community (ALTC), Indonesia, Thai Global Business Administration Technological College (TGBC), Rajamangala University of Technology (RMUTT), Thailand, the Academy of Malay Studies, University of Malaya (UM), UPM Press, and the Office of the 9th Prime Minister of Malaysia.

Date of Input: 14/10/2025 | Updated: 22/10/2025 | marlina_is