I OFTEN see frustrating evidence that the English proficiency of Malaysians is getting from bad to worse.
As seen from the parliamentary records, English had been used to debate and interpret policies and principles in our country but contrary to what is generally perceived, the decline of English in Malaysian officialdom is not due solely to the language policy but also indirectly affected by other socio-politico protocols.
In fact, the country’s important institutions could do more to promote the usage of English, the lingua franca of communication for speakers of different first languages, among our next generation.
I often attended events where I would need to give speeches to students all over the country – from government to international private schools as well as public and private universities. Usually, when communicating with the students, such as on their interpretation of citizenship, their views on the constitution or the role of the state institutions, I paid attention not only to their knowledge but also the way they expressed themselves.
In some cases, the students simply did not want to express themselves, let alone speak English. Obviously, we have not yet fully cultivated self-confidence in public speaking among our students.
Of course, there are exceptions. Some schools have active public-speaking societies. It is, indeed, heartening to see the articulateness, eloquence and prowess of their students in debating competitions, including in the international arena. However, for most schools, this laudable exercise in public speaking seems just like any other extra-curriculum activity rather than being a skill of expression to be imparted to the students.
This could be due to a flaw in the whole process of education. Many business leaders say when interviewing graduates, they are more likely to choose those who can speak English well and have the ability to interact with people from different backgrounds.
In language usage, proper construction of sentences and pronunciation of words matter, including especially the language used in texted messages and on social media platforms. Notably, speakers of Malaysian English often say ‘oredi’ for already; ‘dun haf’ for half done; got ah for is it there and ‘where he go’ for where did he go.
In addition to grammar, language is also about behaviour. The origins of words are linked to culture and history. Many English words originated from Germanic and Latin traditions, resulting in a large number of synonyms.
In local parlance, there are examples of etymological contractions, due mainly to not pronouncing words correctly. For example, ‘go astern’ (reverse) has become ‘gostan.’
The name of a place can also be derived from the industry for which the place is known. For example, the name of Mantin, a town in Seremban District, Negeri Sembilan, come from two words – Mine Tin. We also have words like globalisasi for globalisation or dunia (in Malay).
The link between language and culture has a social impact. The older generation point out that when we use the more standardised language (whether Malay and English), we are more tolerant, open and optimistic. Of course, political and social retrogressions are not due solely to poor English but the two have a similar root cause – flawed political decision-making.
Before we can build up English to promote understanding,
pursue knowledge and achieve progress, our society needs a new way of thinking. The reality is that in this country, English teaching has become mired in political wrangling. Is there a political will to bring about a remedy? If so, how long will it take?
English is important in the economic, scientific and diplomatic fields. However, it is just important that Malaysians, regardless of the language of their use, should consciously exhibit the finer culture of that language – just like how the English speakers summed up their first impression of the Malay speakers – gentle and courteous. (translated from Oriental Daily)