70yo Ipoh Malay Man Speaks Fluent Tamil, Learned It from His Indian Friends When He Was 9

The ability to speak in another language not only helps in easing communication but also potentially increases your chance of getting hired. In Malaysia, the commonly spoken languages are Malay, Mandarin, English, and Tamil but not everyone is able to master all 4 languages or something outside their native language.

A 70-year-old retired postman in Ipoh, Perak, however, surprised others with his ability to speak fluent Tamil, and he didn’t even need to attend school for that extra language.

“I learned it as early as 9 years old through my Indian friends. I mingled around with them a lot,” Tajudin said.

Tajudin explained that the time spent with his Indian friends when he was still a kid helped develop his interest in learning the language. He had decades to explore and “have fun” with the language, so to him, it feels natural to converse in Tamil with his Indian friend. 

Tajudin’s friend, who has known him for 20 years admitted that he was shocked after finding out that Tajudin speaks fluent Tamil.

“We initially spoke to each other in Malay, but I was surprised to find out that he speaks fluent Tamil.”

The extra language not only eased the conversation for Tajudin but also helped in his previous job where he had to speak Tamil sometimes. Some of his colleagues even asked for his help to teach them the language.

“Even my manager wanted me to teach him the Tamil language.”

Strengthen communication and promote unity

In an interview with BERNAMA, Tajudin encouraged the youth to take the opportunity to learn an extra language or two, which is not their native language. He believes that it will be a major help, especially in competitive times like today.

“We’ll be left behind if we speak only 1 language.”

Tajudin also mentioned how language is not just spoken words but also a tool to achieve good things.

“It’s not only important to strengthen the communication but also useful in promoting unity. Malaysia is a multi-cultural country.”

To those who speak more than 1 or 2 languages, how much has it helped you in terms of communication and career?

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