Arabic Language Proficiency Test Launched
The King Salman Global Academy for Arabic Language (KSGAAL) has launched the "Hamzah" test to assess Arabic language proficiency among non-native speakers. The announcement was made by its Secretary-General, Dr Abdullah Saleh al-Washmi, during the launch of Arabic Language Month at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM) yesterday.
Hamzah Test: A New Standard for Arabic Language Proficiency
Dr al-Washmi noted that the Hamzah test, which will be conducted online, is equivalent to the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), using the standards set by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). This new test aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of Arabic language proficiency, setting a new standard for non-native speakers.
Arabic Language Month: A Celebration of Arabic Culture
Arabic Language Month, which began on January 2, is a celebration of Arabic culture and language. Activities lined up for the month include poetry recitation competitions, calligraphy writing contests, academic forums, and intensive Arabic language courses for lecturers, teachers, and university students. Besides Malaysia, Arabic Language Month is also being held in several countries such as Mali, Kazakhstan, Argentina, Indonesia, China, Brazil, and others.
Event Attendance and Encouragement
The event was also attended by Chargé d’Affaires of Cultural Attaché at Saudi Arabia Embassy, Mohammed Abdullah al-Sahli, as well as academics and students from local higher education institutions. Dr al-Washmi encouraged Malaysian students to enrol in an eight-month Arabic language course at the KSGAAL-run Markaz Abjad, along with a two-month immersion programme in Saudi Arabia.
Previous Collaboration
Earlier this year, KSGAAL also organised Arabic Language Month in collaboration with the International Islamic University of Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin (UniSIRAJ).
Conclusion
The Hamzah test is a significant development in the assessment of Arabic language proficiency, providing a new standard for non-native speakers. Arabic Language Month is a celebration of Arabic culture and language, promoting cultural exchange and understanding. We encourage Malaysian students to take advantage of the opportunities offered by KSGAAL and Markaz Abjad to improve their Arabic language skills.
FAQs
Q: What is the Hamzah test?
A: The Hamzah test is an online assessment of Arabic language proficiency, equivalent to the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), using the standards set by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR).
Q: What are the activities lined up for Arabic Language Month?
A: Activities lined up for Arabic Language Month include poetry recitation competitions, calligraphy writing contests, academic forums, and intensive Arabic language courses for lecturers, teachers, and university students.
Q: Is Arabic Language Month being held in other countries?
A: Yes, Arabic Language Month is being held in several countries such as Mali, Kazakhstan, Argentina, Indonesia, China, Brazil, and others.
Q: How can Malaysian students improve their Arabic language skills?
A: Malaysian students can improve their Arabic language skills by enrolling in an eight-month Arabic language course at the KSGAAL-run Markaz Abjad, along with a two-month immersion programme in Saudi Arabia.