Does strengthening Bahasa Melayu mean rejecting other foreign languages?

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Strengthening Bahasa Melayu Does Not Imply Rejection of Foreign Languages

Strengthening the mastery of Bahasa Melayu does not equate to rejecting the importance of foreign languages. Instead, the focus is on ensuring that younger generations build a robust foundation in Bahasa Melayu, which is integral to their identity and character. While proficiency in other languages is acknowledged as crucial for knowledge acquisition and employment, Bahasa Melayu must be prioritized and never neglected, serving as a reflection of intellect, values, and civilisation.
Prioritising National Language Foundation

The Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) emphasizes that Malaysians should prioritise mastering Bahasa Melayu before seeking proficiency in other foreign languages. This approach aims to secure a strong base in the national language for the youth, fostering a sense of identity and character development. The organisation's Board of Governors member, Ahmad Fadhlil Mohamad Pakarul Razy, articulated that this emphasis on Bahasa Melayu is not an exclusion of other languages.
Value of Foreign Language Acquisition

Learning other languages is recognised as beneficial and necessary for broadening horizons and meeting practical needs. These languages are deemed important for acquiring knowledge across various fields and for addressing the demands of the job market. This pragmatic view supports the idea that multilingualism can coexist with a strong national linguistic identity, with foreign languages serving specific functional purposes.
Bahasa Melayu as a Reflection of Culture

Bahasa Melayu holds a significance beyond mere communication; it is considered a profound reflection of intellect, values, and civilisation. Under no circumstances should this national language be neglected. Its continued development and prominence are seen as essential for maintaining cultural integrity and national identity in an increasingly interconnected world.
Sustaining Bahasa Melayu's Relevance

Continuous efforts are necessary to strengthen Bahasa Melayu, ensuring its sustained relevance as a language of knowledge, economy, and technology. This commitment is particularly pertinent amidst the ongoing tides of globalisation and digitalisation, which are transforming interaction and thought processes. The DBP views initiatives like the Karnival Lestari Bahasa 2025 as timely in reinforcing the national language's position.

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Does strengthening Bahasa Melayu mean rejecting other foreign languages?

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