Dean of FKIP UNPRI Becomes Guest Speaker on RRI Pro 4 FM: Exploring the Meaning and Timeless Wisdom in Malay Proverbs
Exploring the Noble Values and Moral Messages Behind Malay Proverbs
UNPRI, Medan – The Faculty of Teacher Training and Education (FKIP) of Prima Indonesia University (UNPRI) once again demonstrated its academic contribution in the public sphere. This time, the Dean of FKIP UNPRI, Dr. Dian Syahfitri, S.S., M.Hum., appeared as the main guest speaker on the cultural program “Resam Melayu” broadcast by RRI Pro 4 FM Medan, the Voice of North Sumatran Culture, on Friday (October 3, 2025), from 8:15 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. WIB. The 1.5-hour program, hosted by UNPRI’s Marketing Communications representative and radio presenter Datok Yan Djuna, together with RRI operator Bah Marlon, carried an engaging theme: “Malay Proverbs Proven Through Time.”
In this casual yet insightful discussion, Dr. Dian delved deeply into the meaning and beauty of Malay proverbs as part of the linguistic and cultural wealth of the Indonesian archipelago. According to her, proverbs are not merely a sequence of words, but a form of ancestral wisdom passed down through generations — containing analogies, advice, and moral guidance for life. “Malay proverbs are gentle yet firm, they correct without hurting, and teach without preaching,” said Dr. Dian enthusiastically. She also explained the differences between proverbs, expressions, and figures of speech, which became an interesting highlight throughout the broadcast.
Dr. Dian emphasized that amid the rapid flow of modernization and technological advancement, proverbs remain relevant to contemporary life. She cited several proverbs that are still often used to describe modern social situations, such as “an enemy under the blanket,” “the fence eats the crops,” “rippling water is shallow,” and “like a frog under a coconut shell.” According to her, the meanings of these proverbs remain alive and, in fact, reflect the increasingly complex realities of today’s society. “Malay proverbs teach us to think before we speak and to act wisely without hurting others,” she added.
The “Resam Melayu” program also highlighted the main functions of proverbs: conveying advice and life guidance, beautifying language, reflecting cultural values, and serving as a social identity of a community. Dr. Dian explained that in addition to the Malay culture, forms of proverbs are also found in other ethnic groups such as Karo, Javanese, Toba, Mandailing, and Minangkabau. This shows the wide cultural and linguistic richness of the Indonesian archipelago. Interestingly, the discussion was interspersed with traditional Malay rhymes (pantun) by the host, Datok Yan Djuna, and by listeners who called in to request their favorite Malay songs — adding warmth and cultural charm to the atmosphere at the RRI Pro 4 FM Medan studio, located on Jalan Gatot Subroto, Sei Sekambing, Medan.
During the discussion, listeners from various regions across Indonesia also interacted and asked questions through RRI’s interactive channel. Even when some listeners brought up topics outside the main theme — such as the difference between Malay songs and Malay chants — Dr. Dian was able to respond intelligently and communicatively, showcasing her broad insight as both an academic and a language practitioner. Dr. Dian also shared innovative ideas to preserve proverbs in modern digital formats, such as educational game applications or creative social media content, so that they become more familiar to younger generations.
As the Dean of FKIP UNPRI, Dr. Dian reaffirmed her faculty’s commitment to preserving linguistic culture through the study programs of Indonesian Language and Literature Education, English Education, and the Master’s Program in Indonesian Language Education. FKIP UNPRI students are encouraged to apply cultural values in teaching and internship activities at schools, ensuring that language and literature continue to thrive in society. “By understanding and practicing the values of proverbs, we safeguard the nation’s intellectual and moral heritage,” concluded Dr. Dian with great hope. The event opened with traditional Malay rhymes and ended with a meaningful closing pantun, leaving a lasting impression on listeners throughout the archipelago. (Yd)
News About "Marketing Communications:"
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
Other News
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu
2025-10-13 09:15:15 by Andrian Reinaldo Crispin
Menggali Nilai Luhur dan Pesan Moral di Balik Peribahasa Melayu