MALAY LANGUAGE MUST BE MORE THAN JUST A MEANS OF COMMUNICATION - AMIRUDIN

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 12 (Bernama) -- Bahasa Melayu, as the national language, should not be seen merely as a tool of communication, but as a reflection of one’s loyalty to the nation and understanding of local values and identity, said Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari.

He emphasised that proficiency in the national language has always been a top priority for the government, as it serves as a vital force in fostering unity and shaping the Malaysian national identity.

“For that reason, just a few days ago, during the tabling of Budget 2026, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reiterated his commitment to further strengthening the use of the Malay language.

bootstrap slideshow

“He also took issue with the growing practice among international schools in Malaysia of no longer using Malay as the medium of instruction, saying this, to some extent, contravenes the National Language Act 1963/67 (Act 32) and Article 152 of the Federal Constitution, which clearly designates Malay as the national language,” he said here today.

He said this when speaking at the launch of the 2025 National Language Month, organised by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), at the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council Convention Centre here. The event was also attended by DBP Board of Governors chairman Datuk Dr Anwar Ridhwan.

Amirudin said the National Language Month remains highly relevant and should continue to serve as a platform to nurture appreciation for the national language while reinforcing unity among Malaysia’s diverse communities.

bootstrap slideshow

He also expressed the view that the Malay language should be strengthened through the economic and creative sectors, including local music, film, literature, and animation, to elevate it as a form of soft power that promotes Malaysia on the global stage.

Speaking at a press conference later, Amirudin said that in upholding the status of the national language, the state government has consistently complied with Act 32 in all official matters, including the naming of places, roads, and public signage.

Meanwhile, in his welcoming remarks, Anwar said that the Malay language must be safeguarded as a symbol of the nation’s pride and identity, which opens doors to diplomacy, science, and commerce, even as the world becomes increasingly influenced by international languages.

“It should be remembered that a nation’s strength lies in its ability to preserve its own language while embracing the need to master others, and at the same time, remain capable of engaging with the wider world,” he said.

-- BERNAMA