Page 17 - Compilation of Poems Arau International Poetry Festival 2021

Arau International Poetry Festival 2021 is our dream to connect
poets to poets and appreciators of poetry. The poetries in many
languages and cultures certainly bring diversity and inclusion to the
participants. Despite the geographical locations, we are connected
to our similarities. We are kindred spirits whose despite of our fears,
challenges and issues, celebrate our resilience and hope for better
future.

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T e t e e o e i e c n o e f r
The theme of Resilience and Hope for Arau International Poetry
Festival certainly echoes our sentiments for the present challenging
times and hope for better future. Despite of our personal
challenges, I am honoured and grateful to be surrounded by
acceptance and support from fellow poets and participants.
Personally, listening to poems with diverse challenges and
viewpoints broaden my thinking. I am being exposed to multiple
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richer worlds. Being able to express my thoughts to receptive and
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accepting like-minded friends provides calmness to my life. We are
no longer strangers. We are acquainted through our poems. I have
seen your world and you have explored my universe.
Arau International Poetry Festival has won international and local
accolades including Times Higher Education(THE) Awards UiTM
2022 under Excellence and Innovation in the Arts. It is being
shortlisted in Times Higher Education(THE) Awards Asia 2022. The
awards are not possible without the contributions of our poets and
participants.
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At the end of your reading, I hope you have wonderful glimpses of
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A t h n f o r e d n , o e y u h v o d r l l p e f
myriads of experiences and feelings of friends who welcome you to
their private spaces.
Perhaps, one day you will let us visit your space via poems too.
Enjoy Arau International Poetry Festival 2021.
~DR. LATISHA ASMAAK SHAFIE~