Malaysia is famous globally for its cultural diversity and multiracial harmony. No state exemplifies this more than the East Malaysian state of Sarawak. Comprising of more than 40 sub-ethnic groups, all living in complete unison and harmony with each other.
Given that each of these sub-ethnics has its very own unique culture, lifestyle and language, you’d be really surprised to know of Sarawak’s official language.
Source: world of buzz
Yes, of course, like all other states in Malaysia, Bahasa Melayu is the state’s official language. However, did you know that English is still recognised by the Sarawak State Government as its official language?
Source: world of buzz
In fact, if you ever had the chance to observe the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) seatings, you’d notice that it is conducted mainly in English and not in Bahasa Melayu like in Parliament and the rest of the Malaysian state’s DUNs. Furthermore, official letters of the state are also mostly written in English.
So why is Sarawak still using English as its official language? Here’s a breakdown of the reasons behind it:
Source: world of buzz
1. Sarawak has yet to recognise the National Language Act 1963/1967
Source: world of buzz
The law which governs the official language of our country is the National Language Act 1963/1967 as well as Article 152(1) of the Federal Constitution. In this case, both prescribe that the official language for our federation is Bahasa Melayu.
However, in Sarawak and in this case, Sabah as well, they abide by another provision which was set during the formation of Malaysia in 1963 which is the Cobbold Commission and Article 161(3) of the Federal Constitution.
Source: wob
Basically, it was agreed upon in the Cobbold Commission Report and was further refined for the Malaysia Agreement 1963 that:
- Bahasa Melayu is the national language.
- The English language is the official language for a period of 10 years after the formation of Malaysia until the state legislature provides otherwise.
However, Article 161 of the Federal Constitution states that 10 years after Malaysia was formed, Parliament can pass a Bill on the use of English in the courts in Sabah and Sarawak, in the state legislature, and for other official purposes in both states.
Hence, in accordance with the relevant legislation mentioned, Sarawak had never passed any ordinance to restrict or terminate the use of English as its official language.
Source: world of buzz
Okay, what does that mean?
It means that Sarawak has the choice of whether to use English as its official language and is still using it to this day.
2. English is a necessity in the state
Source: world of buzz
Another reason why English is still being used in official matters of the state is because it has traditionally been so since James Brooke ruled the state. Unlike the situation in most of the Peninsular states barring the British States Settlements of Penang and Melaka, Sarawak was in total sovereign control of the whole state.
Source: world of buzz
Therefore, English was the language of the courts and daily official use during the time of the White Rajahs up until Malaysia was formed.
As the locals are also used to this status quo, therefore the use of English remains until today. Moreover, this makes it more practical and logical to have it as the official language as stated by former Sarawak Chief Minister Tan Sri Adenan Satem.
This was further reiterated by the current Sarawak Premier, Tan Sri Abang Johari who was quoted as saying,
“I will also pursue this policy so that English will remain an official language of the state,”
Hence, that is why English is still used as the official language of Sarawak. Interesting, right?
What do you think of this revelation? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!
Also read: Bangi Public Library Adds Giant “Perpustakaan” Sign After M’sians Condemned Its English Signage
