DBP Act amendments: 'Don't just look at punishment for language offenders'

Issues surrounding amendments to the Dewan Bahasa and Pustaka (DBP) Act 1959 should not be focused solely on the proposed enforcement and punishment, according to DBP organising chairperson Prof Awang Sariyan.

Instead, he said, the proposal should be looked at as a whole, including DBP's role as the main language body in charge of accreditation, rating, licensing, incorporation and international activities.

"The media focused more on the enforcement aspect, whereas in the press conference at DBP with the education minister on June 21, it was mentioned by the DBP organising council chairperson that the amendments are holistic in nature," Awang (above) told Malaysiakini.

However, Awang declined to comment when asked further questions on the type of new offences proposed under the Act.

Jail time, RM50,000 fine

On June 21, Bernama reported that under the proposed amendments, individuals found to "not respect" the national language can be fined up to RM50,000 or face jail time.

Awang reportedly said the proposed amendments are in the final stages of workout and would be presented to Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob next month.

Speaking to reporters after attending DBP's 66th-anniversary celebrations, Awang said the amendments were proposed to spark love for the national language and instil patriotism.

DBP also proposed additional amendments to the National Language Act to allow for more effective enforcement, he added.

On Wednesday, Awang said the proposed amendments covered core aspects of DBP's function, despite proven success to carry out its six objectives.

Among others, DBP was formed to enhance the national language in all fields; nurture literary talents, publish or assist in the publication of literary works; determine the correct spelling, pronunciation and new terms in the national language; as well as promote the use of the national language.

Awang said DBP, through the proposed amendments, would be empowered to carry out its duty more effectively, a process that had taken the last 10 years to complete.

"All parties are urged to wait for the outcome of the amendment process to be forwarded to the authorities according to the set procedure," he said, adding that it was in line with the government's efforts to uphold the use of the national language. - Mkini