Karim said the type of language displayed on signboards was determined by the respective city’s by-laws, which must be adhered to, the Borneo Post reported.
He noted that in Sarawak, it would be acceptable for Malay and English to be used on signboards because both were official languages in the state.
However, he said, there was no need to go overboard “just because we want to attract tourists”.
Karim added that using dual languages on road and business signboards was not the main consideration of tourists visiting Malaysia.
“I think it will not significantly impact travellers, but rather be a minor inconvenience.”
His comments come in the wake of a debate sparked by Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) issuance of 20 fault notices and 10 enforcement notices to shop owners for “using languages other than the national language in an excessive manner” from January till Oct 16 this year.
Last Monday, former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad asked why shops were allowed to install signboards that did not use the Malay language, after visiting one of the newer shopping malls in Kuala Lumpur.
“All the signboards are in Chinese with English translations. Nothing in Malay. Not at all. So is this Malaysia? Or have we become a part of China?” he asked on social media.
His statement later drew criticism from federal tourism, arts and culture minister Tiong King Sing who said such remarks could affect the country’s diversity and tourism industry.
Tiong, who is also from Sarawak, claimed DBKL’s actions had caused tourists to question Malaysia’s openness and inclusiveness.
His response subsequently drew a backlash, with Umno veterans backing a call for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to replace Tiong for his “humiliating” statement on the matter.
Masjid Tanah MP Mas Ermieyati Samsudin of Bersatu suggested that the government consider changing Tiong’s portfolio to one focused on enforcement action. - FMT
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