DBP explains selection of awardees
By Rosli Abidin Yahya

DBP Director Hj Abdul Hakim 

Writers and literature lovers attending the forum 

The Language and Literature Bureau (DBP), Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports had been trying its best to select the most qualified writers to accept various awards at local and international levels. Hj Abdul Hakim bin Hj Mohd Yassin, the DBP director said because of criteria imposed by awards presentation committees, the writers thought by the public most eligible for the awards may not win nominations.

"Thailand's SEA Write Award requires a candidate to have a literary publication within three years of the award year. Brunei Darussalam's Anugerah Sastera MASTERA also imposes different requirements.

"Therefore the public should understand that our selections of awardees had been fair and in total harmony with the requirements," he said.

Hj Abdul Hakim delivered his opening address at the 6th Bahana Forum yesterday morning at the International Convention Centre, Berakas.

The forum, held every month, was delayed so it can be held in conjunction with the Brunei Book Fair 2003 being held until today.

The forum, along with other activities to promote and stimulate reading, writing, acting and other related literary activities, was chaired by Hj Mohd Yusoff bin Hj Murni of DBP.

The panel is comprised of Hj Zailani Hj Abd Ghafar of Co-Curriculum Department, Ministry of Education, Mohamad Rajap, the deputy Principal of Anthony Abell College, Seria and Haji Osman bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Hj Mohamad Tamin, Language Officer, DBP.

The event was attended by literary writers, Universiti Brunei Darussalam's lecturers, staff of DBP and literary lovers.

Hj Abdul Hakim also announced new requirements for the selection of awardees for the Malaysian Hadiah Sastera Malaysia.

Courtesy of Sunday Bulletin