Why we can’t push for Malay to be Asean’s second language just yet

 

From Walter Sandosam

The adoption of Malay as a second language for the Asean region has attracted much interest, both positive and negative. Legitimate concerns have been expressed by interested parties.

Over time, languages have evolved from the ancient languages of Greek and Latin to the current leanings. The United Nations recognises six languages largely based on the level of usage in the global environment. These are English, Mandarin, French, Russian, Arabic and Spanish.

A cursory look at some of these languages will reveal that they are “empire” languages when major seafaring powers, especially those involved in conquering new lands, brought on the influence of their languages as the lingua franca at their new dominions.

In a nutshell, it reflected a certain level of power. This was a prerequisite in the permeation and spread of the native language of the “conquerors”.

Malaysia and India, among many others, being part of the then British empire. were intensely exposed to English, hence its spread and wide usage in daily affairs. This, at certain times, was at the expense of the native languages of the region.

So does Malay have the clout or influence required to establish its ascension as a second language in line with the visions of the prime minister?

This intention has elicited an immediate response from an Indonesian minister. He instead proposed that Bahasa Indonesia be recognised as Asean’s second language. He opined that it deserves this status considering its history and legacy, not to mention its global reach, as the most spoken language.

One key factor which appears to have been completely overlooked is that language pre-eminence works in tandem with the amount of supremacy that its proponents have in the arena. Is one the undisputed leader in the region as an economic powerhouse, or potential one, high on the trade and industry platform akin to the adage “all roads lead to Rome”?

With the advent of developments in the Nusantara region and the enormous potential given the population size, land mass, natural resources and intellectual capabilities, it appears that Indonesia is emerging as a key force to be reckoned with.

By default, any propositions textured by them on language will gain wider acceptance as their influence permeates the region. Logically, Bahasa Indonesia will be on the forefront of any initiative to adopt a second language for the region.

Reality has to be faced. Malaysia, which is still unable to ensure consistent and holistic usage of Malay extensively in its home country, is in no position to command the influence to make it a second or even third language.

We have fallen many rungs since we were considered an emerging “tiger” in the region whom our neighbours chose to emulate. Right now, some of these, then considered backwater countries, have surpassed our achievements in many fields.

It is a sad reflection of our backsliding due in no small measure to domestic political gymnastics. Three PMs in three years? Compare this with others in the region that have strong leaders, practising their own version of “guided” democracy, with singularity of purpose.

We have failed to maintain our pre-eminence.

Malaysia is, unfortunately, a shadow of itself in the roaring 70’s and 80’s and sadly now conditions are being extrapolated to events in Sri Lanka on a comparative basis of political intrigue and economic decline. This comparison, however, lacks merit given the differences in landscapes.

For one, to be able to influence language acceptance, one has to be first able to orchestrate leadership on a wider front and be seen as a guiding beacon.

This is the reality that Malaysia has to accept. We are not there.

Focus on the here and now and bread and butter issues which are appearing on the horizon. The country can still rise to greater heights. To this end, the political leadership has to ingest multiple doses of the correct anti-venom to rid itself of the poisonous toxicity currently in the system.

Championing a language has to take a back seat till one’s own house is put in order. - FMT

Walter Sandosam served as a senior research fellow at a leading local private university.

The views expressed are those of the writer and do not necessarily reflect those of MMKtT.