Datuk Usman Awang was
a Malaysian poet,
playwright and novelist. He is popularly considered, and most justifiably too,
as perhaps the best poet in the Malay language. He began to form his name in
the Modern Malay literary world by writing poetry. His poetry is not only written
in Malay, but also translated into Mandarin, English, Iban, Kadazan and Tamil
language. For further reading, click HERE. The Poetry Appreciation: Kekasih – A Tribute to Usman Awang and Peace
was held last year in September, organized by Soka Gakkai Malaysia (SGM). This
event was a celebration of Usman Awang’s life and poetry, with the aim to explore the
themes of love, peace, friendship, compassion and a universal Malaysian
identity in his works. The event was a good platform for SGM in showcasing how literature can be, as Soka Gakkai
International (SGI) President Daisaku Ikeda says, “an
artistic expression of faith, an irrepressible outflow of the human soul with
energy to move the minds of others.”
In an increasingly
turbulent age, the ideals of peace as expressed in Usman Awang’s poetry become
even more relevant today. The event has created a greater awareness in the role
of literature in fostering peace and brought a successful end to SGM’s Month of
Peace. Also, that was also their way of celebrating Malaysia Day (which
actually falls on September 16). In conjunction with the
event, I was given opportunity to recite one of his works which has been
translated into Bahasa Kadazandusun entitled, "Boros Do Tina." Reciting a poem, though not easy, rather meticulous, is a journey all in itself that presents struggles as well as surprises. Anyway, it was
a delightful and meaningful experience for me. This year (2012), SGM once again invited me
to recite the same poem during the Himpunan Sejuta
Belia held in Putrajaya recently. Heartful thanks to SGM for the
kind opportunity.
Feel free to read the related article HERE. Now, let’s take a look at
the poems.
