SHAH ALAM: Tengku Permaisuri Selangor, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin (pic) graced the opening of the "Majlis Puisi Dirgahayu Tuanku" poetry recital, organised by Universiti Teknologi MARA (UiTM) through the Institution of Malay Rulers Chair and UiTM Office for the Empowerment of the Nobility on Thursday (Jan 8).
The event, organised in collaboration with the National Poets Association of Malaysia (PEMUISI), is a sign of respect and unwavering loyalty to the Malay Rulers, the guardians of the nation's sovereignty.
The organisation of the event also serves to elevate the art of poetry as a vehicle for conveying patriotic values, strengthen appreciation for Malay cultural heritage, and cultivate a sense of love for the Royal Institution among the younger generation and the entire population.
In his welcome address, UiTM vice-chancellor Datuk Dr Shahrin Sahib @ Sahibuddin said the organisation of the event reflects UiTM's commitment to continue to empower the understanding and appreciation of the Malay Royal Institution through a refined, cultured and knowledge-based approach.
As a public university born of historical trust and guided by the values of Endeavour, Piety and Nobility, UiTM has always upheld the Malay Rulers Institution as the umbrella of sovereignty, the pillar of national stability and a symbol of unity.
"This event is not just a literary event, but a vehicle for intellectual and cultural awareness, demonstrating the civilised, knowledgeable, and historical relationship between the people and Ruler," he said.
Therefore, he said, UiTM is committed to producing graduates who are not only excellent in knowledge and skills, but also rich in character, understanding their cultural roots, respecting the Malay Royal Institution, and upholding the values of loyalty, responsibility and service as citizens.
He said the Institution of Malay Rulers Chair, which is the main organiser of this event, was established as a platform to study, document, and disseminate knowledge related to the Royal Institution from various perspectives, including history, constitution and culture.
UiTM Office for the Empowerment of the Nobility, on the other hand, plays a role in strengthening the internalisation of self-worth, etiquette, and national values among university staff through various knowledge- and heritage-based programmes.
At the event, Tengku Permaisuri Norashikin also launched the book "Antologi Puisi Dirgahayu Tuanku, published by PEMUISI.
Also present were the Keeper of the Rulers' Seal Tan Sri Syed Danial Syed Ahmad, PEMUISI president Datuk Dr Radzuan Ibrahim @ Wanrazuhar and MBI Selangor group chief executive officer Datuk Saipolyazan M. Yusop. - Bernama
