• Today: September 16, 2026

Local writer selected for 2026 SEA Write Award nominee

Brunei Darussalam has selected Muhammad Shah Rezza bin Abdul Aziz, better known by his pen name Rezza, as the country’s nominee for the 2026 SEA Write Award.

The announcement was made during a special gathering for the 2026 SEA Write Award nominee held at Bilik Patih Barbai, Language and Literature Bureau (DBP), Berakas.

The National SEA Write Award Assessment Panel unanimously selected Rezza’s novel Bila Ombak Berombak for the prestigious regional literary recognition.

The gathering was chaired by Acting Director of DBP and Deputy Chairman of the National Assessment Panel (PPN) Suip bin Haji Abdul Wahab.

Acting Deputy Director of DBP and Secretary of the PPN Hajah Haireni binti Haji Awang Damit, together with members of the National Assessment Panel and Recognition Unit Secretariat were also in attendance.

Rezza is an active Bruneian writer who has contributed to the country’s literary heritage through short stories, poetry, essays, and novels. He previously served as a teacher at several schools from 1985 to 2012.

Among his individual works are Ikan yang Sombong (1987) and Bila Ombak Berombak (2026), and his writings have also been featured in various publications both locally and internationally.

The SEA Write Award is regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s prestigious literary awards and serves as an important platform to recognise outstanding writers whilst encouraging literary practitioners in the region to produce quality and meaningful works.

The award ceremony for nominees from 10 Southeast Asian countries is scheduled to be held at Sukhothai Palace, Bangkok, Thailand, presented by members of the Thai Royal Family towards the end of 2026. 

Acting Director of Language and Literature Bureau (DBP) and Deputy Chairman of the National Assessment Panel (PPN) Suip bin Haji Abdul Wahab and Acting Deputy Director of DBP and Secretary of the PPN Hajah Haireni binti Haji Awang Damit with Muhammad Shah Rezza bin Abdul Aziz. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTOR
Muhammad Shah Rezza during the gathering. PHOTO: CONTRIBUTOR
Officials and the writer in a group photo

 

SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN/LYNA MOHAMAD

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