Thoughts on education and culture in the works of Awang Had Salleh
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.22633/rpge.v30iesp1.20909Keywords:
Awang Had Salleh, Culture, Education, Identity, National developmentAbstract
Education and culture in Malaysia are two fields that play a significant role in shaping the nation’s identity. Since the post-independence era, education in the country has gone through various phases of policy changes and pedagogical approaches to meet the demands of national development and the needs of a culturally diverse society. Policies such as the Razak Report (1956) and the Rahman Talib Report (1960) paved the way for the establishment of a national education system based on the principles of unity, knowledge, and human advancement. The works of Awang Had Salleh are seen as contributing to the development of educational and cultural thought in Malaysia. His intellectual contributions not only demonstrate his sharp insight in formulating the foundation and philosophy of national education but also reflect his commitment to building a strong national identity rooted in the noble values of cultural heritage. This study was conducted to analyse his intellectual contributions through his academic writings and literary works that embody educational philosophy, cultural values, and national spirit. The main focus is on recurring themes emphasized by Awang Had Salleh, such as value-based education, the importance of the Malay language as a medium of knowledge, and the role of culture in shaping moral character and national identity. Using a qualitative and textual analysis approach, this study examines two of his works: Biru Warna (1974) and the short story collection Antara Dua Dunia (2005). The findings reveal that Awang Had Salleh’s thoughts remain highly relevant in the context of modern Malaysia, which faces various challenges of globalization and shifting societal values. His works also highlight the importance of strengthening national identity through holistic education grounded in cultural values. In conclusion, this study affirms that Awang Had Salleh’s intellectual legacy should continue to be appreciated and explored, as it provides valuable guidance in enhancing the education system and cultivating a culturally refined society in Malaysia
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