Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) has issued a statement addressing recent accusations made in a social media post that claimed Iban literature books were destroyed by the agency. DBP firmly denied these allegations, clarifying that all Iban literature, along with other indigenous works, remains intact and safely stored under their stewardship.

In their statement, DBP explained that since DBP Sarawak took over from the Borneo Literature Bureau (BLB) in 1977, they have safeguarded all literary materials in their possession. This includes a total of 1,077 books, comprising 444 collections from the BLB and 633 collections from Sarawak, Brunei, and Sabah. DBP emphasized that these materials are preserved and accessible to researchers, writers, and the public who visit DBP's Sarawak branch to explore the Borneo collection.

DBP's statement labeled the accusations as "false and misleading," underscoring the agency's dedication to protecting and promoting Malaysia's rich literary heritage. DBP's mission has long included documenting and preserving the languages and folklore of Malaysias indigenous communities. This dedication is reflected in their continuous efforts to research tribal languages and publish valuable resources that support linguistic diversity in Sarawak and beyond.

DBP has also published several dictionaries that serve as critical resources for preserving and promoting the region's indigenous languages. These include the Kamus Bahasa Melanau Mukah, Kamus Bahasa Iban, Kamus Bahasa Vaie, and Kamus Melayu Sarawak. These dictionaries are a testament to DBP's commitment to ensuring that indigenous languages remain accessible and relevant for both current and future generations.

The agency has also produced a Word List catalogue that documents various languages, including Daftar Kata Bahasa Vaie (Bahasa Melayu), Daftar Kata Bahasa Melayu (Bahasa Kedayan), and Daftar Kata Bahasa Melayu (Bahasa Melanau Dalat). These collections provide invaluable language references, underscoring DBP's dedication to linguistic preservation.

In addition to dictionaries and word lists, DBP has published 44 books of folk literature from Sarawak, which include significant titles such as Antologi Cerita Rakyat Sarawak Telichu and Telichai, Avun Hagang Batang Kayo, and Kerena Dayang Petera. These works capture the essence of Sarawak folk narratives and preserve them for future generations.

Furthering its commitment to the Iban language, DBP collaborated with the Education Ministry to develop Iban language textbooks that are now part of the official curriculum in Sarawaks schools. This initiative reflects the agency's broader educational mission and highlights its support for incorporating indigenous languages into mainstream education.

DBP's Sarawak branch reiterated its commitment to researching, preserving, and publishing works that honor the tribal languages, folk literature, and cultural richness of Sarawak communities. Through these initiatives, DBP continues to play a pivotal role in ensuring Malaysia's linguistic and cultural diversity remains vibrant and accessible.

This proactive response from DBP serves to clarify any misunderstandings and reinforces their unwavering dedication to safeguarding Malaysia's literary heritage.