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In an increasingly interconnected and multicultural world, the ability to communicate in more than one language has become a valuable asset, offering a multitude of benefits extending beyond mere linguistic proficiency. The importance of learning and knowing multiple languages goes far beyond the ability to converse with people from different backgrounds. It encompasses cognitive, social, and economic advantages shaping individuals and societies. From enhancing cognitive abilities and problem-solving skills to fostering cultural understanding and facilitating career opportunities in a globalised economy, the significance of multilingualism cannot be overstated. There are a myriad of reasons why learning and knowing more than one language is not just advantageous but essential in today’s diverse and interconnected world. **EARLY LEARNING** According to Legislative Council (LegCo) member Yang Berhormat Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abdul Salam, the impact of teaching a particular language may not become evident immediately; rather, it requires consistent investment of time in teaching and learning, ideally starting from early childhood. “This approach ensures that the effects are more substantial, resilient, and enduring, particularly in the case of learning Arabic language,” she added. ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/q4HYCg8RXnhQlD_HU5wz3-2HZrV3q2cdl67ZGvXKXfc.jpeg) PHOTO: FREEPIK ![](https://media.everythingbrunei.com/public/sDXRfmv0SRZHerC_2tZIL-ClGMWBga7CPKMuiOpRv_X.jpeg) Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Hajah Safiah binti Sheikh Haji Abdul Salam at the Brunei Darussalam National Arabic Language Seminar for 1445 Hijrah. PHOTO: ROKIAH MAHMUD She shared this at the recent Brunei Darussalam National Arabic Language Seminar for 1445 Hijrah (MuBaRak 1445). In her address, Yang Berhormat Hajah Safiah underscored the historical importance of Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) guidance, emphasising his advocacy for teaching children to observe prayers from as early as the age of seven. She drew a parallel, advocating for a similar focus on introducing Arabic language education from a young age. Furthermore, she advocated for the inclusion of Arabic language instruction in the national education system, under the shared oversight of the Ministry of Religious Affairs (MoRA) and the Ministry of Education (MoE). **ISLAMIC ALIGNMENT** Highlighting Arabic’s global significance as a communication tool, the LegCo member viewed its integration into Brunei’s education system as a boon for the Muslim community. She underscored the need for “varied teaching approaches and interactive activities to optimise Arabic language acquisition”. Yang Berhormat Hajah Safiah also noted the increasing fluency of Brunei’s Muslim community in Arabic. Acknowledging its role as the language of Al-Quran, she emphasised the importance of comprehending its words during daily prayers. Exploring the nation’s historical dedication to Arabic language education, the LegCo member traced its origins to the era of the Brunei Sultanate. She attributed advancements in Arabic language education to the leadership of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. She also highlighted the alignment of Arabic language development with Islamic teachings, underscoring the nation’s commitment to prioritising Islamic education in its national curriculum. The MuBaRak 1445 platform aims to foster collaboration among diverse entities in the Sultanate to improving opportunities and elevating the standard of Arabic language education and seeks to reinforce the nation’s identity as a Zikir Nation. As one of the seminar’s objectives, it aims to facilitate the exchange of information regarding the advancements in Arabic language education in Brunei. **VISION ASSESSMENT** Additionally, the seminar strives to promote collaboration in teaching methodologies to enhance awareness of the significance of learning Arabic. Moreover, it will assess and review the Ru’yah Mubaarak, the Sultanate’s vision for Arabic language education, and explore potential collaborations among institutions. The Brunei Darussalam National Arabic Language Seminar stands as a crucial occasion promoting the integration of Arabic education into the national curriculum. It reflects the country’s longstanding dedication to Islamic teachings and underscores the significance of early language learning for enduring and meaningful outcomes. – Rokiah Mahmud

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