Abang Patdeli named this year’s Sarawak Literary Award recipient

KUCHING (Oct 15): Dr Abang Patdeli Abang Muhi has been named the recipient of this year’s prestigious Sarawak Literary Award in recognition of his significant contributions to literature and academia, announced the award evaluation panel chairman Datu Dr Adi Badiozaman Tuah.

He was cited by Sarawak Public Communication Unit (Ukas) as saying that the award ceremony will take place on Oct 30 at the Dewan Santapan of the State Legislative Assembly.

He also said the event will be graced by the Sarawak Yang di-Pertua Negeri Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar and his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.

Adi Badiozaman highlighted that Abang Patdeli, who was born in Kampung Sebangan, Simunjan, on Oct 12, 1962, was selected for his active involvement in both literary and academic circles.

“Abang Patdeli has been a consistent participant in various literary gatherings and frequently presents papers at workshops and seminars, not only within Malaysia but also internationally,” he added.

Abang Patdeli will receive RM20,000 in prize money, sponsored by the Sarawak Government.

He has previously worked as a reporter with The Borneo Post in the newspaper’s early years before furthering his studies.

In addition to the Sarawak Literary Award, other awards to be presented at the same ceremony include Special Language and Literature Award, Sarawak Writer Award by Genre, Sarawak Writer Award by Language Category, and the Sarawak Emerging Writer Award.