Back in February, we shared how the Hulu Langat District Public Library in Bangi, Selangor faced scrutiny from sections of the public for using English on its neon signboard instead of the official national language. This was despite the main signage at the library’s entrance already in Bahasa Melayu.
Fast forward almost 2 months later, there have been a few developments on the matter, including how the public library ended up installing new signage in Bahasa Melayu alongside the English one.
Hulu Langat District Public Library in Bangi adds new Bahasa Melayu signage
As shared by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka Malaysia (DBP) on its official Facebook page, the Selangor Public Library Corporation (PPAS) which oversees the Hulu Langat District Public Library has added a new “PERPUSTAKAAN” (literally means library in Bahasa Melayu) signage on the left of the English “LIBRARY” signage on top of the public library.
In the caption, DBP congratulated PPAS for its initiative to immediately implement improvements in line with DBP’s efforts to dignify the use of the national language, especially in public spaces.
With the Facebook post, DBP also shared a couple of photos of the Bangi public library at night time, with the signage also illuminated in neon lights as per the English signboard.
It is unknown when the Bahasa Melayu signboard was erected on top of the public library, though based on posts on the Hulu Langat District Public Library Facebook page, the sign has been there since at least 8 March 2024.
PPAS reached out to DBP and worked together to further improve initiatives to dignify Bahasa Melayu
Dr Hazami Jahari
When the English signage first went viral in February, it caught the attention of DBP director-general Dr Hazami Jahari who chimed in on the matter.
In a Facebook comment, Dr Hazami expressed his disappointment with the usage of English on public signboards in our country, saying that DBP is tired of always having to give the same advice.
Zafrullah Aris
Since then, PPAS has reached out to DBP, with both parties holding meetings to discuss the issue as well as other pressing matters.
As reported by Majoriti, PPAS’ head of corporate department Zafrullah Aris revealed that both parties have agreed to improve the initiative in dignifying the use of Bahasa Melayu.
Furthermore, PPAS further also clarified that they had no intentions to sideline the national language, let alone to condescend the use of Bahasa Melayu as claimed by netizens.
A Facebook post condemning the use of English signage
So, what do you guys think of the whole situation? Share your thoughts with us in the comments.
Also read: M’sian Condemns Bangi Public Library For Using English Signboard, Turns Out Main Signage is in BM
