It's easy to dismiss something as 'mere' – a mere twenty dollars, a mere suggestion, a mere thought. The word itself, as the Cambridge Essential Dictionary points out, often serves to emphasize that something isn't large or important. But what happens when we look beyond the 'mere' and delve into the substance, the lasting impact of individuals and their contributions? This is a question that resonated deeply at the recent seminar, 'Tokoh-Tokoh Melayu 2024: Seni, Bahasa & Budaya.'
This wasn't just a gathering; it felt more like a conversation across time, a thoughtful exploration of figures who have shaped Malay language, arts, and culture. Dr. Roksana Bibi Abdullah from NIE highlighted the enduring significance of Zainal Abidin Ahmad, affectionately known as Za'ba. His intellectual prowess and dedication to language reform, she explained, continue to be a wellspring of inspiration. It’s a powerful reminder that true influence isn't about grand pronouncements, but about the quiet, persistent work of building and nurturing.
Za'ba's legacy, particularly his emphasis on education and language development, serves as a potent model. It’s not about clinging to the past, as Dr. Azhar Ibrahim, chairman of the Persuratan Committee of the Malay Language Council of Singapore, eloquently put it. Instead, it’s about learning from these pioneers to forge new leaders, new thinkers for today's generation. We aren't aiming to rewind the clock; we're looking to these historical figures as blueprints for creating the icons of tomorrow.
The seminar itself was a vibrant tapestry of ideas, bringing together scholars and practitioners. Discussions ranged from preserving Malay performing arts like dikir barat and traditional dance, to the crucial role of parents in fostering the Malay language from the earliest stages. Elfi Ismail, a professional Malay dance choreographer and an NIE graduate, shared insights on how to convey cultural values through contemporary artistic expression. He emphasized that while customs might evolve, the core values embedded within them are what truly need to be passed down.
This idea of passing down values, of nurturing growth from the very beginning, was echoed by Dr. Roksana. She invoked the Malay proverb, ‘melentur buluh biarlah dari rebungnya’ – you must bend the bamboo while it is still a sprout. This beautifully illustrates the importance of early cultivation, especially in language. Parents, she urged, should lead by example, embracing informal Malay usage, or ‘bahasa basahan,’ and supporting this with accessible resources like bilingual books and engaging children's programs. It’s about making the language a living, breathing part of everyday life, not just an academic subject.
Ultimately, the seminar underscored a vital point: the contributions of influential figures, whether they are literary giants, linguists, artists, or cultural activists, are far more than a 'mere' mention in history books. They are living legacies, offering profound lessons and enduring inspiration. By understanding and celebrating their work, we equip ourselves and future generations with the wisdom and vision needed to continue building a rich and vibrant cultural landscape.
