Kuala lumpur: The works of acclaimed Malaysian journalist, writer, and educator Adibah Amin should be incorporated into the school curriculum to instil the values of unity, tolerance, and nationhood among younger generations, former Federal Court Judge Tan Sri Zainun Ali said. The Universiti Malaya Pro-Chancellor emphasized the enduring relevance of Adibah's writings as Malaysia continues to navigate issues of race, religion, and social cohesion.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Zainun described Adibah's "As I Was Passing" as a precious collection whose significance would endure beyond the era in which it was written. She remarked on the potential impact of integrating these stories into educational materials to enhance understanding and tolerance among students. This suggestion was made during her speech at the "A Tribute to Adibah Amin: Book Reading" programme at Monash University Malaysia.
The tribute event brought together distinguished figures from journalism, literature, education, the arts, and civil society to celebrate the legacy of Adibah, who was unable to attend due to ill health. Adibah, a recipient of the Southeast Asian Writers Award, is widely recognized for her contributions as a journalist, novelist, educator, and translator. Her "As I Was Passing" columns, published under the pen name Sri Delima in the New Straits Times during the 70s and 80s, vividly captured the humor, warmth, and humanity of everyday Malaysian life.
Monash University Malaysia President and Pro Vice-Chancellor Prof Emeritus Datuk Dr Adeeba Kamarulzaman expressed the university's pleasure in celebrating Adibah's work and Malaysia's rich literary and cultural heritage. She highlighted that while Monash is often viewed as a STEM-focused institution, it also seeks to embrace Malaysia's cultural diversity and celebrate the talents and achievements of Malaysians.
The programme, organized by the Monash University Malaysia Library and Learning Commons, featured readings of selected excerpts from the commemorative legacy edition of "As I Was Passing: Glimpses of Malaysian Life" by five guest readers. It also included a video presentation showcasing Adibah's life and contributions. First compiled into a book in 2009, "As I Was Passing" chronicles Adibah's observations of Malaysian society and continues to resonate with contemporary discussions on identity, community, and nationhood.