Using poetry to advise younger generation against corruption

SHAH ALAM: Messages or advice, especially in teaching the younger generation to stay away from corrupt practices, could be conveyed through poetry in its subtle form, said Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama) chairman, Senator Datuk Ras Adiba Radzi.

She said apart from presenting poetry in various styles and forms, it could also attract the attention of the younger generation to understand issues better.

"We forget that sometimes, anti-corruption messages can be conveyed through literature such as songs, gurindam (irregular form of Malay poetry) or seloka (limerick), as these can catch the attention of our younger generation," she told reporters after the Anti-Corruption Poetry Recital organised by Pemuisi (National Poets Association) @Karangkraf, here, today.

Ras Adiba said the recital could also be a platform to provide advice, and be conducted in a timely manner.

"Today's programme (is a platform) to give advice. (Providing advice using poetry) is very gentle and subtle. Perhaps, if we continue to (reprimand) people this way, they will not want to listen," said Ras Adiba, who also sang a poetic song, 'Fatwa Pujangga' at the programme.

She added that the programme, held in collaboration with Karangkraf, would also be undertaken by Bernama, especially to build interest in poetry as well as to provide elements of advice.

Earlier, Pemuisi president, Datuk Dr Radzuan Ibrahim, in his speech said that the programme was one of the association's efforts in rejecting corrupt practices.

"Pemuisi will support all anti-corruption campaigns, in line with its vision as bearer of the 'universal voice of humanity'. Pemuisi will fight corruption with poems to make society aware that corruption is a menace for the country and a despicable act, and should be eradicated.

"At today's event, some poets will recite poetry, syair (narrative poems) and anti-corruption-themed songs. Hopefully, the audience here and social media browsers can appreciate the beautiful verses of these poems that are very meaningful, and think about the message behind them," he said.

He also hoped that today's programme could, to some extent, provide exposure on the diverse forms of poetry, in line with the association's desire to make literary works more accessible to the community.

-- BERNAMA