KUCHING: The Malay language has extended its influence globally, with many universities around the world establishing Schools of Malay Studies, according to Datuk Idris Buang.
The State Legislative Assembly (DUN) Deputy Speaker said this reflects the growing international interest in the language and at the same time highlights Malaysia’s rich cultural heritage.
“In China alone, there are 16 universities offering Malay language studies, along with others in countries such as Korea, Japan, the US, the UK, and Holland, so we are not isolated.
“Malaysia can be highlighted to the whole world through the language, reflecting who we are, our manners, refinement, culture, and principles,” he said.
He said this during the Tinta Kenyalang 2024 Award Ceremony organised by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) held at the State Legislative Assembly building last night (Oct 18).
Idris added that the Malay language has transcended ethnic and linguistic boundaries and is spoken widely across the nation.
“We have a diverse ethnic background across Malaysia. Sarawak alone has more than 50 ethnic groups and sub-ethnicities. However, we can see that Bahasa Malaysia is widely used,” he added.
He also said the language is used to represent and express the colourful customs, manners, and character of a nation, and at the same time, it brings together the people of Malaysia, earning its reputation as a refined language.
“No nation is known except through the refinement of its language. English is a second language, but it is not a language that binds our unity—no, English is a language of technology, a language for knowledge, and so on in other aspects.
“We have successfully elevated Bahasa Malaysia to a point where it truly reflects who we are as a nation,” he said.
Also present were DBP Malaysia director-general Hazami Jahari, DBP board of directors’ member Datuk Dr Jeniri Amir, DBP Sarawak Branch director Abang Haliman Abang Julai, and UNIMAS Vice Chancellor Professor Dr. Ahmad Hata Rasit.
