SOREANG JOURNAL – In the midst of the rapid flow of globalization and the development of digital technology, language remains a bridge that connects allied nations.
This spirit was reaffirmed in the 28th Secretariat Conference of the Brunei Darussalam–Indonesia–Malaysia Language Council (MABBIM), which brought together delegates from Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia in one language cooperation forum.
Even though it was the first time in history that the MABBIM Secretariat Deliberation was held online, the spirit of language diplomacy that had been built over more than five decades remained strong.
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Chairman of MABBIM Indonesia, Hafidz Muksin, emphasized that this forum is a strategic space to maintain the continuity of language diplomacy between countries.
“This forum is an important stage to re-knit ties of commitment, deepen ties of brotherhood, and extend the relay of linguistic cooperation that we have built together with great dedication. Distance may physically limit us from holding each other, but MABBIM’s linguistic cooperation agenda can still take place in this digital space,” he said.
Hafidz even called the Secretariat Deliberation the “main kitchen” of the organization. “The Secretariat Deliberation occupies a very crucial position. This is the front line formulation room, or MABBIM’s ‘main kitchen’,” he said.
Closing his remarks, Hafidz expressed optimism for the future of cognate languages. “I am optimistic that every point of our thinking today will give birth to a sharp resolution, have a real impact, and have broad benefits for the existence of allied languages.” he said.
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Since its inauguration in 1972, MABBIM has become more than just a linguistic forum. It is a means of cultural diplomacy that strengthens relations between Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia.
This also ensures that cognate languages continue to develop as languages of science, culture and communication amidst increasingly rapid world changes.
Secretary of MABBIM Indonesia, Dora Amalia, emphasized that this forum is not just a routine organizational agenda, but a space to strengthen joint commitment in developing cognate languages.
“This meeting is a very valuable momentum to strengthen commitment, strengthen friendship, and continue the linguistic cooperation that has been well established so far,” said Dora.
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According to him, virtual implementation is proof that linguistic cooperation is able to adapt to current developments.
“There is something a little different about holding the 28th Secretariat Deliberation this time. For the first time in the history of holding the MABBIM Secretariat Deliberation, activities were carried out online and participated virtually by Brunei Darussalam, Indonesia and Malaysia,” he said.
“Through this meeting, let us show that the collaboration that has been close for decades is able to adapt to various situations and continue to run productively,” added Dora.
The Secretary of MABBIM Brunei Darussalam, Dayang Hajah Annisa binti Haji Moksin, also expressed appreciation for the spirit of collaboration.
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“On this occasion, I would like to express my highest appreciation and congratulations to the Indonesian state as the host who worked hard to organize the virtual conference of the 28th Secretariat Meeting this year,” he said.
For him, the commitment of member countries shows that language continues to be the glue of regional relations. “Indeed, the presence of full commitment and sincerity that is not divided by each member country is proof of our complete togetherness in sovereignizing the same language,” he said.
He hopes that this forum will give birth to new ideas that strengthen the role of Indonesian and Malay in the future. “I have great hope that our consensus today will be able to spark significant new ideas, creativity and innovation for MABBIM in its efforts to dignify the Malay and Indonesian languages,” he said. ***
