Kuala lumpur: Strengthening the mastery of the Bahasa Melayu as the national language is vital, as it forms the common bond among the nation’s multi-racial and multi-ethnic communities. Principal fellow of the Institute of Ethnic Studies (KITA), Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM), Prof Datuk Dr Teo Kok Seong, emphasized the importance of Bahasa Melayu or Malay as a key foundation of national identity. This sentiment was echoed by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, during the opening of the First Meeting of the Third Session of the 15th Parliament.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Teo highlighted on Bernama TV’s ‘Apa Khabar Malaysia’ the ongoing issue of younger generations not fully mastering the national language, despite over sixty years of independence. He pointed out that the national language is not only the official language but also a symbol of national identity.

Teo, who was awarded the Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur’s Tokoh Pemartabat Bahasa Melayu award in 2012, advocated for a review of the national language policy to foster greater appreciation of the Malay language within the community. He stressed the invaluable significance of Bahasa Melayu in nationhood, serving as the national language, the official language, and the cultural identity of the people. Teo called for an urgent change in attitude towards the language.

Additionally, Teo proposed the introduction of a compulsory subject on intercultural knowledge to enhance public understanding of the way of life in the country’s multi-racial society. He expressed belief that embracing the philosophy of unity in diversity could enable all ethnic groups to move forward together as one Bangsa Malaysia.