EMBRACING ELEGANCE: DECEMBER 18TH DESIGNATED AS ARABIC LANGUAGE INTERNATIONAL DAY BY UNESCO
Marking a significant moment for linguistic diversity and cultural heritage, December 18th is now celebrated annually as Arabic Language International Day, commemorating the rich linguistic tapestry and cultural significance of the Arabic language.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has officially declared this day as Arabic Language International Day, recognizing the immense contributions of Arabic to world civilization, history, and communication.
Arabic, known for its eloquence, history, and widespread usage, holds a pivotal place as the fifth most spoken language globally. With an estimated 425 million native and non-native speakers across continents, its influence spans diverse regions, literature, arts, sciences, and more.
This special day aims to promote multilingualism and highlight the importance of linguistic diversity in fostering mutual understanding and preserving cultural heritage. It provides an occasion to celebrate the Arabic language's beauty, depth, and significance, encouraging its learning and appreciation worldwide.
Throughout the world, various educational institutions, cultural organizations, and Arabic language enthusiasts are commemorating this day with various activities, including seminars, workshops, exhibitions, and cultural events, all aimed at showcasing the linguistic richness and cultural diversity embedded within the Arabic language.
Dr. El-Said Badawia, a linguistic expert, shared, "Arabic Language International Day serves as an invaluable platform to celebrate the unique heritage of Arabic, encouraging dialogue, tolerance, and appreciation of linguistic diversity. It is an opportunity for individuals from different backgrounds to connect and embrace the richness of Arabic culture through its language."
Educational institutions and language centres are using this occasion to encourage Arabic language learning, offering special courses, lectures, and online resources to facilitate language acquisition and foster greater understanding among communities.
This annual observance reinforces the significance of language as a tool for cultural preservation, global communication, and the promotion of mutual respect and understanding among people worldwide.
As December 18th approaches each year, the world comes together to honour the Arabic language's legacy, underscoring its pivotal role in connecting societies, transcending borders, and enriching global cultural diversity.
Within the Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah (UMPSA) community, the UMPSA Arabic Club (KEBARA) extends an invitation for you to share your admiration and affection for the Arabic language using #KEBARA_ArabicLanguageDay.
Prepared by: Rosjuliana Hidayu Rosli
