Previously, we shared how former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad criticised new malls in Kuala Lumpur for having many signboards in Chinese, saying that he felt he “was in China” while patronising the shopping complexes and sarcastically asked whether Malaysia has “become a part of China”.
Following the statement going viral, it caught the attention of Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), the government body responsible for coordinating the use of Bahasa Melayu and Bahasa Melayu literature, which has since responded to Tun Mahathir’s worries.
DBP, alongside local governments, will ensure the proper use of Bahasa Melayu on public signboards
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In a statement, DBP stressed that it views seriously the issue of neglecting the national language on public signage, especially those that went viral.
DBP added that it took notice of Tun Mahathir’s statement and welcomed the former Prime Minister and the public’s concerns in ensuring that the national language is dignified as per Article 152 of the Federal Constitution.
Hence, DBP and the Local Government Department (JKT), through the local authority (PBT), will continuously collaborate to monitor the use of Bahasa Melayu on public signage.
This is in line with the Ministry of Housing and Local Government’s (KPKT) directive to all PBTs to make it mandatory for advertisers and advertising agencies in Malaysia to adhere to rules and By-Laws on the use of the national language on public signboards.
DBP offers services ensuring proper Bahasa Melayu is used on public signboards
DBP also revealed that it offers service for certifying the use of Bahasa Melayu on signboards, be it advertisements, premise signage, mast ads, bunting, posters and others. The service can be accessed here.
Moreover, DBP also offers an advisory service through its KNDBP initiative to help those with language-related problems.
DBP ended the statement by stressing,
“As Malaysians, any act that belittles the national language shouldn’t be ignored, and all parties must be ready to take up the shared responsibility to ensure Bahasa Melayu’s standing as the national and official language.”
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So, what do you guys think of DBP’s statement? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
Also read: “Have we become part of China?” – Tun Mahathir Lambasts New KL Malls with Many Chinese Signboards
