Abay was a great poet, enlightener, founder of Kazakh written literature and literary language.

In his poetic works, Abay touches upon social, public and moral problems of the Kazakh people. His poems, filled with deep philosophical thought and civil pathos, call for struggle against oppression and ignorance.

By the Resolution of the Government of the Republic of Kazakhstan August 10 is defined as Abai's Day. This holiday was established in anticipation of the 175th anniversary of Abay Kunanbayuly, which was celebrated in 2020.