Kuala lumpur: The involvement of young participants in the 40th Independence Poetry Recitation Competition for Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya demonstrates that poetry recitation continues to thrive even in an increasingly digital era, said the National Writers Association of Malaysia (PENA). Its president, Dr. Mohamad Saleeh Rahamad, remarked that the event promotes patriotism through artistic expression while highlighting the role of literature in shaping the nation. According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Mohamad Saleeh emphasized that every year, National Day should provide an opportunity to renew the spirit of patriotism through artistic expression. He stated that the core purpose of the competition is to ensure that new generations understand the vital role literature plays in nation-building and in nurturing patriotic and nationalistic citizens. Meanwhile, Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) Central Region director, Nurul Julia Alani Henry, reflected on the broader cultural significance of the event. She stated that independence should be celebrated not only through history but also by maintaining its essence through language and culture. She noted that the spirit of independence will endure as long as the Malay language is respected and Malay heritage continues to remind citizens of the importance of preserving cultural values and national identity. The event also saw the presence of Haslina Usman, the daughter of the late National Laureate Usman Awang, who presented the Usman Awang Challenge Trophy to the 40th SDPK champion. PENA organized the competitions in Kuala Lumpur and Putrajaya in collaboration with DBP and the Federation of National Writers' Associations of Malaysia (Gapena).