National Laureate: Long-awaited honour for Mana Sikana, says wife

 

KUALA LUMPUR: The wife of the late Dr Abdul Rahman Napiah, better known by his pen name Mana Sikana, described the conferment of the 16th National Laureate upon her husband as a long-awaited recognition of his lifelong contributions to literature.

Salmah Ali, 82, said the award was something the renowned literary figure had hoped to receive, given his extensive contributions to the nation's literary landscape.

"He had been receiving literary awards since his school days. On the day he passed away, he was actually presenting a working paper for Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka before experiencing stomach pain and vomiting. He was taken to hospital that night.

"Before his passing, he had been informed of the possibility of receiving this literary award. As his wife, I feel proud and happy, but at the same time deeply saddened to be attending this ceremony without him, knowing how much he wanted it," she said emotionally.

She said this when met by reporters after receiving the prestigious award on behalf of her late husband, which was presented by Her Majesty Raja Zarith Sofia, Queen of Malaysia, at the award presentation ceremony here today.

Salmah said Mana Sikana's passion for literature extended beyond writing, as he was also actively involved in producing television and radio dramas while pursuing an academic career that saw him attain the title of professor.

"When we lived in Johor Baru, he was actively producing drama works for Singaporean radio and television. Malaysian television also frequently aired his works, alongside his teaching commitments.

"After several years, he pursued further studies at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) and eventually became a professor in his field. His influence extended beyond Malaysia, as he also served as a visiting lecturer at universities in Indonesia," she said.

She added that Mana Sikana continued sharing his knowledge of writing and literature with their four children and 12 grandchildren until the end of his life.

He died in May at the age of 80 due to heart complications.

Salmah expressed gratitude that her husband had finally received recognition for his services and contributions to the nation's literary development.

Also present was Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.

Fadhlina, in her speech, said the selection of Mana Sikana as the 16th National Laureate was a recognition of his significant role in strengthening national literature through creative writing, literary theory, criticism and academic discourse.

Born in Bagan Serai, Perak, on Oct 9, 1946, Mana Sikana began his career as a teacher before moving into academia.

He served at several higher education institutions, including UKM, Nanyang Technological University in Singapore and Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris (UPSI). - NST