Kuala Lumpur: President Donald Trump signed an executive order Saturday to make English the official language of the nation, Anadolu Ajansi (AA) reported. Trump stated that English has been the national language since the country’s founding, and it is time to formally declare it as the official language.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the order reverses a 25-year-old directive from former President Bill Clinton. That directive required federal agencies and other federally funded groups to provide language assistance to non-English speakers. The change is expected to impact immigrant communities and individuals seeking language assistance adversely.

Trump emphasized that declaring English as the official language is in the US’ best interest to foster unity, ensure consistent government operations, and enhance civic engagement. He believes that English proficiency opens economic opportunities and helps newcomers integrate into their communities, participate in national traditions, and contribute to society.

The order is part of Trump’s broader efforts to address migration issues in the US. His administration has deported thousands of migrants, mainly from Latin America, as part of what he promises to be the largest mass deportation program in US history. Trump has also criticized the speaking of non-English languages, claiming during his 2024 presidential campaign that non-English-speaking migrants are being “dropped” into US communities.