Upholding National Heritage: Elevating the Malay Language and Jawi Script

The Malay language and the Jawi script represent the identity, heritage, and sovereignty of our nation. In recent years, the issue of their usage, particularly on signboards and business premises, has sparked ongoing debate. Sultan Pahang’s consistent decree since 2020, calling for the Malay language and Jawi script to be upheld comprehensively, deserves our full support.

This advocacy goes beyond superficial compliance

As the Sultan rightly stated, the Malay language and Jawi script are symbols of the nation’s culture, identity, and sovereignty not just for Pahang but for the entire country. They signify the commitment of every citizen, regardless of race or background, to preserve the timeless heritage of this land.

While the Roman script is the official writing system, integrating Jawi alongside it is not only permissible but vital to ensuring the survival of this historic script. Local authorities, municipal councils, and related agencies across Malaysia, such as company registrars, government departments, business owners, housing developers, and highway authorities, must heed the Sultan’s decree.

Unfortunately, such efforts have faced resistance, notably from certain DAP leaders, including the ADUN for Tras, Chow Yu Hui, who opposed the use of Jawi on signboards and brought the matter to court. This action reflects a level of disrespect that cannot be ignored.

The Stigma Against Jawi

It begs the question: why is the Jawi script singled out with such disdain? Is there a moral flaw or inherent malice in Jawi? If anything, Jawi is a historical writing system of the Malay language. Criticisms linking Jawi solely to Islam are also misguided. After all, Islamic texts are widely available in Roman script as well. Does this mean the Roman script should also be challenged?

Jawi holds a unique place in our heritage. The classical Malay manuscripts, written in Jawi, provide a window into our history. It differs from Arabic, much like Japanese has distinct scripts for kanji, hiragana, katakana, and romaji. In Japan, no one objects to the use of multiple writing systems, even if they don’t understand them.

Unity and Respect

Sultan Pahang has consistently reminded Malaysians to preserve the Malay language and Jawi script as core elements of our national identity. This is not a provincial matter confined to Pahang but a call for all Malaysians to honor the roots of our shared heritage. Local authorities across all states must implement this decree, reflecting their commitment to the nation’s identity.

Failing to do so would mean perpetuating a disjointed approach, where some states uphold national values while others ignore them. Respecting this decree is a reflection of our love and loyalty to this land, transcending ethnic or regional lines.

Persistent Doubts About DAP’s Stance

The opposition from certain DAP leaders often highlights a deeper issue, their reluctance to embrace Malay-centric elements that form the backbone of Malaysia’s identity, as enshrined in the Federal Constitution under Articles 152 and 153.

While DAP leaders often declare their agreement with the Constitution’s provisions, their actions sometimes tell a different story. The push to equate Mandarin with Malay as a national language, for example, under the pretext of it being widely spoken, is a clear attempt to erode the primacy of the Malay language.

Such demands echo the historical attitude of entitlement seen in pre-independence opposition to the Barnes Report, which prioritised Malay as the medium of instruction. To this day, these sentiments persist, manifesting as resistance to anything that celebrates Malay culture and heritage.

Moving Forward

The comprehensive use of the Malay language in daily life does not threaten other native languages or cultures. Instead, it enhances national unity. Regular usage will also improve fluency among Malaysians, including some Members of Parliament who still struggle with the language despite decades of independence.

It is time for us, as a nation, to embrace the wisdom in Sultan Pahang’s call. Upholding the Malay language and Jawi script is not merely about preserving the past, it is about forging a unified and proud Malaysian identity for the future.

Let us set aside unfounded fears and prejudices. Together, we must cherish and elevate the very symbols that define our national identity, ensuring they remain vibrant for generations to come.