Deputy Prime Minister Fadillah Yusof says writers must offer constructive criticism to counter extreme polarisation in an era of information overload.
KUALA LUMPUR: Writers and literary figures must serve as society’s moderating voices to curb extreme intellectual and emotional polarisation.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Fadillah Yusof said they must deliver measured criticism and offer constructive alternative thoughts.
He said writers serve as thinkers, social observers and drivers of public discourse in every era.
“They do more than record reality. They interpret change and give meaning to the nation’s social journey,” he said at a prize presentation ceremony for a Creative Writing Competition organised by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka.
Fadillah elaborated that literary works are not merely creative expression but play a vital role as a medium for thought.
He said they honestly record the pulse of society, current challenges, and future aspirations.
Literature is significant in shaping individuals who are thoughtful, ethical, and possess strong self-identity.
It also functions as a historical record of events, ideas, and anxieties to guide future generations.
“However, we now live in a world saturated with information that is easily accessible, but not all of it is authentic. The flood of unfiltered information, particularly on social media, demands that the public be wiser in evaluating, considering, and distinguishing between truth and falsehood,” he noted.
In an era of rapid technological change, Fadillah said human development faces growing complexity.
He stressed it is essential to prioritise cultural and value-based grounding.
National progress cannot be measured by material gains alone, but must rest on strong values, critical thinking and national character.
This echoes the late Tun Abdul Razak’s emphasis on unity and human development as the foundation for the nation’s survival.
In line with the Malaysia MADANI agenda, he said language and literature are key to building a thoughtful, civil and cohesive society.
He said this society must be grounded in tolerance and mutual respect.
The government remains committed to strengthening the creative writing ecosystem by nurturing new talent.
It will also expand publishing opportunities and enhance public appreciation of local works.
The government aims to leverage digital platforms to reach wider audiences, especially younger generations.
