The late Abdul Rahman Napiah, known as Mana Sikana, has been posthumously awarded the 16th National Literary Award for his prolific contributions to modern Malay literature. Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek announced the decision, highlighting Mana Sikana's innovative works across various genres and his lasting impact on literary discourse. The award includes a cash prize, national recognition, and the publication of his works for wider dissemination.
PUTRAJAYA: The late modern Malay literary figure, Abdul Rahman Napiah, better known by his pen name Mana Sikana , has been selected as the recipient of the 16th National Literary Award , thereby being conferred the title of National Literary Laureate.
Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek stated that the selection was based on his stature as a prolific and consistent writer who produced high-quality creative works throughout his career. She noted that Mana Sikana's contributions spanned various genres, including short stories, novels, and dramas, all rich with critical thinking, humanistic values, and a keen awareness of social realities. His works often showcased bold and innovative approaches, significantly enriching the narrative forms and aesthetics of modern Malay literature.
The decision by the panel regarding the selection of the 16th National Literary Award recipient was made on April 14, 2025. Mana Sikana passed away on May 26, 2025, after the evaluation decision had been finalized. It is important to emphasize that the basis for the National Literary Award's evaluation is the lifetime contributions of the figure's works and ideas.
Although the individual may no longer be with us, their works and ideas continue to live on, benefiting society and future generations as a treasure trove of knowledge and culture. Fadhlina further explained that the selection of the National Literary Award recipient is conducted meticulously and comprehensively based on established criteria.
As the Chairperson of the 16th National Literary Award Panel, she mentioned that the evaluation includes the figure's contributions through creative works and ideas, their role in the development of literature, the impact on the dissemination of knowledge, leadership in literary associations, and the awards and recognitions received. A Cabinet meeting on January 30, 2026, approved amendments to the National Literary Award's Standard Operating Procedures.
These amendments allow candidates who pass away during the evaluation or selection period to still be considered for the award. In this context, the evaluation of the National Literary Award also considers the entirety of the figure's lifetime contributions, including active involvement in literary activities, nurturing writing talent, and the ability of their works to continue benefiting society and future generations.
This evaluation process is carried out transparently, with integrity, and with authority by the panel of evaluators appointed by the Prime Minister. Meanwhile, Fadhlina stated that as the recipient of the 16th National Literary Award, the government will bestow national recognition and honor upon Mana Sikana's heirs, including a National Honor Certificate, a cash prize of RM60,000, and the publication of up to 50,000 copies of his works, with a maximum value of RM500,000, to be distributed to schools, libraries, and government departments and agencies.
She added that Mana Sikana was known as one of the pioneers who introduced avant-garde and absurd approaches to modern Malay theater through dozens of stage, radio, and television dramas he produced. Additionally, she noted that the late figure was a significant figure in the field of essays and literary criticism, with his contributions in producing scholarly books and hundreds of essays and critiques helping to shape a more mature and thought-based discourse in Malay literature.
Moreover, Mana Sikana created his own literary theories, such as the Theory of Textdealism and the Theory of Taabudiyah, which have become important references among students, scholars, and literary researchers
Malay Literature National Literary Award Mana Sikana Literary Criticism Modern Theater
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