The 28th Meeting of the Southeast Asian Literary Council (MASTERA) began on Wednesday at the Rizqun International Hotel.
The two-day meeting brought together local literary experts and representatives from Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Thailand to discuss cooperation in literature and language development.
On Wednesday, the meeting discussed publication of significant literary works, including the The Silk Road of Archipelago and the Antologi Sajak Penyair Kembara. It also discussed the preparations for the 29th MASTERA Meeting, scheduled to be held in Singapore in 2025.
The session underscored the collective commitment of member countries to further develop and promote Malay literature and culture.
On Thursday, the meeting will hold further discussions on strategic literary projects and collaborations.
Acting Director of the Language and Literature Bureau Hajah Haireni binti Haji Damit, also the Chairperson of MASTERA Brunei Darussalam, in her welcoming remarks said, “I believe that through strong cooperation and commitment, we can continue to achieve success in promoting and empowering Malay literature across the region.
She also highlighted the importance of MASTERA’s recently proposed Strategic Plan (2023-2027), aimed at improving the coordination and effectiveness of the organisation’s long-term programmes.
MASTERA comprises Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, and Thailand. The organisation serves as a platform for regional literary cooperation, enabling experts to coordinate and implement initiatives that preserve and enhance the region’s literary heritage. – FADLEY FAISAL
