The Brunei Darussalam Association of Writers (Asterawani) held an appreciation ceremony at a cafe in Kampong Kiulap to honour three distinguished figures recently, recognised for contributions to literature, culture and education.
The Saturday event celebrated Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, also known in the literary circle as Badaruddin HO, who received the Southeast Asian Literary Council (Mastera).
Renowned for his unique approach to Islamic poetry, Badaruddin HO’s works, such as Meski RumahMu Di Akhirat and Tongkat Putih, embody profound spirituality. His poems are widely studied and featured in collections like Puisi Hidayat and Episod–Episod Sii Awang.
The ceremony also honoured Pengiran Haji Mahmud bin Pengiran Damit, known as Mahmudamit, who received the Distinguished Teacher Award.
A respected poet and short story writer, Mahmudamit’s works include the award-winning story Penghuni Piasau Tunjung and contributions to anthologies such as Antologi Semarak Sastera and Tarian Naga Di Puncak Menara.
His educational publications, including Aspek Kemahiran Lisan, have significantly advanced language education, earning him multiple Bahana Creative Awards. Professor Ampuan Dr Haji Brahim bin Ampuan Haji Tengah, recognised as Brahim AHT or Rahimi AB, was awarded Malaysia’s National Book Award 2024: Distinguished Scholar Lifetime Achievement Award.
His academic tenure at Universiti Brunei Darussalam has spanned decades, where he served as Dean of Students and Director of the Brunei Studies Academy of Brunei Studies.
His notable works, Hikayat Awang Kamaruddin and Hikayat Merong Mahawangsa, underscored his influence on Brunei’s literary and academic landscapes.
The Asterawani Appreciation Ceremony highlighted the honourees’ lasting contributions, underscoring their impact on Brunei’s cultural and literary heritage. – Fadley Faisal
