Can We Use English in Malaysia?

In the immediate period  post-independence,  there were no fears about English being used in government or the private sector.  But all that changed as politicians capitalised on ethnic Malay sentiment for political leverage. The debate over whether to teach maths and science in English lingers to this day. Often, politicians leverage on this debate more to consolidate their own political power than for the betterment of the nation. Most of the professional knowledge houses use English. Many websites and search engines that keep people informed provide or point to information that is in English.

Source: https://fluencycorp.com

English is the official language in 67 different countries and 27 non-sovereign entities around the world. English is the most widely spoken language in the world, including by non-native speakers. Speaking English is an essential requirement worldwide. This is due to the importance of the language in the modern professional and business world and in international interactions. Much of Europe is becoming proficient in English. For instance, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Germany and France have their own national languages, yet  many in these countries acknowledge that English proficiency is important for them to remain competitive. Much of Asia is also embracing and fast mastering the use of English as an important medium for change and progress.

But in Malaysia, English is politically weaponised. Anyone seeking to have English as an accepted medium is perceived as “unpatriotic” or worse. The fear is that the use of English will erode the position of the national language, Malay or destroy a “race”.

But many of us wear ‘English’ attire including black tie or formal suits. Many eat ‘English’ bread. Many turn to fountains of knowledge in English on the internet and from libraries to advance our education and enhance our professional excellence.

However, teaching maths and science in English is deemed as a deviation from the national language policy. The idea of allowing English-medium schools (other than the private schools) is seen as regressive and therefore will not be approved. Only Sarawak sees otherwise. And I dare say Sarawak will progress ahead of Peninsular or Sabah.

Will Malaysia be able to join the league of progressive nations that have no political, social, economic or religious problem with English? Remember our economy is really tiny in the context of the world, less than 0.5% of the world’s GDP. We are a trading nation not a giant economy with homogenous population base like China or Japan – even they are learning English. What’s our “baggage’? We actually need Malay, English, Mandarin and Tamil/Hindi if we are to progress – just check-out more progressive-minded countries like Singapore or Saudi Arabia.

Reference:

Why the insecurity over the use of English in Malaysia? JD Lovrenciear, Aliran, 15 Dec 2023