Syazwani Hj Rosli
Jawi is derived from Arabic alphabets and it is our responsibility to preserve it and pass it to the future generation. Jawi writing is also one of the nation’s culture that is closely related to the Arabic Language, Religious Teachers University College of Seri Begawan (KUPU SB) Deputy Ra’es Dr Haji Abang Hadzmin bin Haji Abang Taha said.
Dr Haji Abang Hadzmin in his capacity as the Arabic Language Association Ra’es made these comments at the launch of the Arabic Language Association at a ceremony at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha Girls Arabic Secondary School on Tuesday.
Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin launched the Arabic Language Association.
The minister also launched the association’s social media accounts.
Dr Haji Abang Hadzmin also said that although other languages are ‘visible’ internationally, in reality it will not be as important as learning Arabic language, especially for Muslims.
He said the establishment of the association aims to strengthen the syaksiyah of the Zikir Nation by making aware on the importance of mastering the Quranic language as a language of worship and culture of Muslims worldwide.
“Hopefully the goal can be achieved with support from government and private institutions that have played a key role in this field,” he said.
Apart from being seen as a language of worship, Arabic language also plays an important role in the Brunei Malay culture considering the relation between Islam and Arabic language which is inseparable just like Arabic language with the Islamic culture, Dr Haji Abang Hadzmin said.
“Looking at Malay language, we have found that most words are derived from the Arabic language and we use them daily,” he added.
A Hiwar on Pengalaman Belajar dan Mengukuhkan Budaya Bahasa Arab Dalam Kalangan Masyarakat Islam Brunei and a certificate presentation to association members by the guest of honour were also held.