Bahasa & Bangsa - By Athirah Husna Aidie

Written By: Athirah Husna Aidie

Category: Poetry

Competition: Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026

Athirah Husna Aidie, writing under the name "Bahasa & Bangsa," brings us a poignant piece titled "Bahasa & Bangsa" in the Poetry category for the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. The poem tenderly explores the theme of cultural and linguistic identity amidst the growing tide of modernity. Written in Bahasa Malaysia, this entry invites readers to reflect on the intrinsic value of language as a vessel for heritage and identity.

About the Work

"Bahasa & Bangsa" is a heartfelt exploration of the relationship between language and identity. With a reflective tone, Athirah Husna Aidie highlights the diminishing use of native languages in favor of global tongues, urging a return to cultural roots. The poem employs vivid imagery and emotional depth, urging readers to value and preserve their linguistic heritage. It questions the relevance of modernity at the expense of cultural identity, making it a resonant piece for anyone concerned with cultural preservation.

Bahasa & Bangsa

Original Submission by Athirah Husna Aidie

Kalakar Writing Competition Submission

Athirah Husna Aidie

Entry #1

Language: Bahasa Malaysia

Bahasa & Bangsa

Apa guna cinta

Kalau tidak dinyata?

Apa guna bahasa

Kalau tidak diguna?

Wahai bangsaku yang amat kucinta

Namun bahasa ibundanya

Kian dilupa

Bagaimana mungkin identiti jiwa

Begitu mudah dimusnahkan

Ditelan arus kemodenan

Bertunjangkan alasan

Tidak lagi relevan.

Kolot mereka kata

Pabila bicara kota

Berlidahkan Melayu Jawa

Mahupun loghat utara.

Si bapa sibuk mengajar

Anaknya petah bicara

Dalam bahasa kedua

“Agar mudah masa depannya”

Katanya

Namun dia lupa

Jati diri anaknya

Ada pada bahasa ibunda

Agar tersemai semangat dan cinta

Kepada nusa kita

Agar tidak lenyap bangsanya

Di mata dunia.

Kerana wahai bangsaku

Siapa lagi yang mahu berbicara

Dalam bahasa Melayu

Kalau bukan diri kita empunya?

About the Competition

The Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026 by Hashtag Kalakar showcases diverse voices in literature from around the world. This prestigious platform celebrates creativity and imagination in various forms, providing a stage for poets and writers to share their unique perspectives. Participants engage in a global dialogue, fostering a rich exchange of cultural and artistic expressions.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Athirah Husna Aidie for her moving contribution, "Bahasa & Bangsa," to the Global Poetry and Creative Writing Competition 2026. Her work serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of language in maintaining cultural identity. Thank you, Athirah, for sharing your voice and insights with us.

About Hashtag Kalakar

Hashtag Kalakar is a creative platform dedicated to providing artists, writers, singers and other creative talents with opportunities to showcase their work and reach wider audiences through competitions, features and creative initiatives.