In today’s fast-paced digital world, amid constant noise and distractions, reading remains a source of tranquility, enlightenment and inspiration.
Cultivating a love for books is essential, as they serve as gateways to new worlds, windows into diverse perspectives, and companions on our journey of self-discovery.
Events like World Book Day play a crucial role in promoting and nurturing a reading culture globally.
Observed annually on the first Thursday in March, World Book Day represents a shared appreciation for the profound impact literature has on the growth and development of young minds. At its essence, World Book Day promotes a culture of reading among people of all ages and backgrounds. It serves as a gentle nudge to carve out time from our hectic lives to revel in the joy and fulfillment found within the pages of a book. To commemorate this day, various activities are organised worldwide, including in Brunei Darussalam.
One such event took place at the Language and Literature Bureau (DBP) Kampong Pandan Library, where several activities were held to inspire young students. These activities included a 10-minute silent reading session and a storytelling session led by a library staff member who recounted the classic folktale of Jack and the Beanstalk in Malay.
Both students and teachers were enamored by the many stories told by a Centre for British Teachers (CfBT) teacher from Pengiran Setia Jaya Pengiran Abdul Momin Primary School, Zia Ul Haq, highlighting the brilliance of the gathering in helping to spark students’ imaginations.
“The event has been positive as we not only want to inspire students to read but also encourage them to learn from it in improving their overall language development.”
He also noted that as a Muslim himself, he recognised the importance of books in life, citing the first revelations made by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
“The first words revealed to our Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) was iqra’ which means to read or to recite, and from this understanding is that information and knowledge are only unlocked through learning from the books.”
To instil this kind of wisdom through books, Zia noted that as a teacher, he not only encourages students to read in school but also finds the time to read outside of school, such as in libraries or at home, and ensures that parents have access to books targeted at their children’s age.
“One way we achieve this (in ensuring access to books), as a CfBT member, is that recently, we conducted a charity book drive where we collected books that are then shared with those in need, ensuring that they can reap the benefits of reading.”
Zia also listed other methods to inspire children to read, such as the use of online repositories, and having friends and families share stories such as traditional folktales that will inspire children to delve deeper and read more into the stories told.
“Just engaging with your children and telling them stories will help them be enthusiastic and passionate to start reading to learn more and develop their imagination.”
Similarly, a teacher from Tunas Jaya Brunei Malay Teachers Association (PGGMB) School in the Belait District, Mohamad Sawarli bin Abdullah, shared how celebrations such as World Book Day are important for children’s growth and development. “From the activities held, it has been positive for the students as they are actively reading and learning from the stories, which helps build curiosity and excitement to read, while also growing their self-confidence and character as they seek out more stories to read and learn from.”
One series that Mohamad Sawarli highlighted is the Mekar Magazine, frequently published by the DBP and can help satisfy children’s curiosity, as he reminisced about his youth in reading the magazine.
As a teacher, he hoped that students will be able to participate in more activities such as World Book Day.
“Events such as World Book Day can bring students of all ages, especially those who may be shy, create a conducive environment where they can interact and learn together, while also building their self-confidence, and having fun simultaneously.”
In celebrating World Book Day, teachers and students alike can embrace it as a one-day celebration and as a call to action to celebrate the joy of reading and the culture of reading that transcends borders, enriching lives with boundless possibilities that come with each page turned. – Daniel Lim
