Malay Language Day, T.B. Jayah death anniversary

The Conference of Sri Lankan Malays (COSLAM) has decided to mark the Malay Language Day and the 48th death anniversary of Al Haj Dr. T.B. Jayah on August 24 from 9.30 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. at the Abdul Ghaffoor Hall, Zahira College, Colombo 10.

While the purpose of observing Hari Bahasa Melay (Malay Language Day) is to popularise and encourage the use of the Malay Language in all its forms, the latter event is to honour the memory of a National Hero who made a signal contribution to Sri Lanka in no small measure, as a statesman and politician.

This is the third year in succession that these two events are being held together.

In order to encourage and revive the Malay Language COSLAM had invited entries for their oratory and speech competitions. The competitions which were conducted under four age groups, Under 12, Under 17, Under 21 and the open category in Hambantota and Colombo have been successfully completed.

The Hambantota competitions were held on July 12, 2008 and the Colombo competitions were concluded on August 9, 2008. As has been the practice, cash prizes, challenge shields and certificates will be awarded to the winners and the runners - up.

The annual Anugerah Bahasa Melayu Awards is another special feature at the ceremony.

These awards recognise the yeomen services rendered to the Malay community in the cultural and religious fields.

In this connection Nethra (Eye) Channel will televise a programme on Thursday August 21 commencing at 5.30 p.m.

Similar awareness programmes have also been arranged with MTV Television Channel under their “Good Morning Sri Lanka” Programme on Thursday August 21 between 7 am and 8 pm and on ITN on August 22 between 11 am and 11.30 am.