Puan Datin Seri Mayya Among Esteemed Guests at the 16th National Literary Award Ceremony

KUALA LUMPUR, August 6 — The 16th National Literary Award (Anugerah Sastera Negara Ke-16) Conferment Ceremony took place in full grandeur at the M Resort Hotel, Kuala Lumpur today, bringing together prominent figures, advocates, and champions of Malaysian literature to celebrate the country's highest literary honour.

Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Puan Datin Seri Mayya and Wan Nor Zahariah. Also present was Dr. Rashid, President of the Perak State Literary Development Board (LEPAS) — an institution that predates the National Federation of Writers Associations of Malaysia (GAPENA).

The gathering of academic and literary leadership was further highlighted by the presence of GAPENA President and panel member of the 16th National Literary Award, Dato' Dr. Mohd Saleeh Rahamad, as well as Dayang Azizah, Executive Committee Member of the Sarawak Cultural Foundation Charitable Trust (Amanah Khairat Yayasan Budaya Negeri Sarawak).

The event commenced with a special video presentation featuring past National Laureates (Sasterawan Negara), showcasing their journeys, contributions, and enduring legacy in elevating the Malay language and literary heritage.

The ceremony proceeded with an Address of Royal Gratitude delivered by the Minister of Education, who also serves as the Chairman of the 16th National Literary Award Panel. The Minister expressed deep appreciation for the royal institution's continuous patronage and support toward national literature and culture.

Following this, the Chairman of the Board of Governors of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), acting as the Head Panelist for the award, delivered the Introduction Speech for the Recipient of the 16th National Literary Award, highlighting the recipient's literary stature, masterpiece works, and lifetime contributions.

The pinnacle of the ceremony was reached when Her Majesty the Raja Permaisuri Agong graciously conferred the 16th National Literary Award upon the recipient, immortalizing the nation's supreme recognition of artistic excellence in literature.