Ampang jaya: Bahasa Melayu should be seen not just as a means of communication but as a symbol of national loyalty and identity, according to Selangor Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari. He highlighted the government's ongoing commitment to ensuring proficiency in the national language, which is crucial for fostering unity and shaping Malaysia's national identity.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, during the recent Budget 2026 announcement, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing the use of the Malay language. He expressed concerns over the trend in international schools in Malaysia where Malay is no longer the medium of instruction, suggesting this goes against the National Language Act 1963/67 (Act 32) and Article 152 of the Federal Constitution, which designate Malay as the national language.
Amirudin shared these thoughts at the launch of the 2025 National Language Month, organized by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) at the Ampang Jaya Municipal Council Convention Centre. The event was also attended by DBP Board of Governors chairman Datuk Dr Anwar Ridhwan. Amirudin stressed that the National Language Month remains an essential platform for nurturing appreciation for the national language and reinforcing unity among Malaysia's communities.
He also proposed that the Malay language should gain strength through economic and creative sectors, including local music, film, literature, and animation, to elevate it as a form of soft power promoting Malaysia globally. At a subsequent press conference, Amirudin noted the state government's adherence to Act 32 in all official matters, including naming places, roads, and public signage.
In his welcoming remarks, Anwar emphasized the importance of safeguarding the Malay language as a symbol of national pride and identity, which can facilitate diplomacy, science, and commerce amid global influences from international languages. He stated the nation's strength lies in preserving its own language while mastering others and engaging with the world.