MIRI: Literature has been described as the “heart” of a society’s soul, playing a vital role in shaping emotional balance, intellectual development, and civilisational values.
Sarawak Deputy Premier, Datuk Amar Prof Dr Sim Kui Hian, said that literature is not merely a medium of writing; rather, it serves as a lifeblood that enlivens thought and conveys human values to society.
He explained that just as the heart ensures human survival through its steady rhythm, literature acts as a driving force for social well-being by maintaining the emotional and intellectual equilibrium of the community.
“If the field of medicine safeguards human physical health, then literature plays a role in preserving spiritual well-being and in cultivating civilisational values that continue to evolve with time,” he said.
He said this when officiating at the 13th World Chinese Writers Conference, held at a leading hotel here on Saturday.
Datuk Amar Dr Sim stressed that Sarawak is currently progressing towards a holistic development vision encompassing the economy, education, technology, and culture, in which literature plays a significant role as an element of ‘soft power’ that adds value to the state’s advancement.
He also linked literature to the concept of holistic well-being, where physical development, such as housing, must be balanced with spiritual growth.
“A house provides shelter, but literature provides space for the soul,” he remarked.
Also present were the Deputy Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts as well as Piasau Assemblyman, Datuk Sebastian Ting Chiew Yew, Mayor of Miri City Council and Pujut Assemblyman, Adam Yii Siew Sang, and the President of the World Chinese Writers Association, Sun De-an. -UKASnews
