Mastery of the National Language Key to Unity and National Identity

16 October 2025

KOTA KINABALU: Mastery of the national language has always been a top priority of the government, as it plays a vital role in uniting the people and shaping Malaysia’s national identity.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Panglima Hajiji Noor said the State Government will continue to collaborate closely with the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) to promote the use of the national language in Sabah.

He said the collaboration would focus on strengthening the state’s language ecosystem, literature, and publications through various strategic initiatives, including academic publishing, nurturing young writers, and conducting research on local languages and dialects in Sabah.

“I hope this synergy will continue to be enhanced so that Sabah becomes one of the leading states in cultivating a culture of knowledge and excellence in the use of the national language,” he said at the launch of National Language Month at Dewan Amil Jaya, DBP Sabah branch, today.

Hajiji’s speech was delivered by State Legislative Assembly Speaker Datuk Seri Panglima Kadzim M Yahya.

“When presenting the 2026 Budget, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening the use of the Malay language,” he said.

Hajiji added that the National Language Month should continue to serve as a platform to foster love for the language and strengthen unity among Malaysia’s multiracial communities.

“Various efforts have been made, including this programme, not only to position Bahasa Melayu as an important medium of communication but also as a language of knowledge, culture, and unity.

“This will certainly help ensure that Malaysians of all ethnic backgrounds continue to master the national language,” he said.

The Chief Minister expressed hope that the programmes held in conjunction with National Language Month would rekindle love and pride for the national and official language, strengthen unity through linguistic and literary activities, and highlight the vital role of language and literature as pillars of nation and civilisation building.

“I also welcome the organisation of the Bahasa Jiwa Bangsa Carnival, held in conjunction with the National Language Decade Campaign at the Sabah state level, as part of this celebration.

“Such initiatives reflect how the Malay language continues to flourish in the hearts of Sabahans, standing as a symbol of unity, intellect, and progress through a language that unites the nation.

“The involvement of all sectors of society, from students to the general public, is crucial to ensuring that the spirit and essence of ‘Bahasa Jiwa Bangsa’ are felt by everyone,” he said.

Hajiji also expressed confidence that these continuous efforts would inspire the younger generation to cherish the national language while also mastering other languages.

“With the close cooperation between DBP, the Ministry of Education Malaysia, and the State Government, efforts to uphold the national language will continue to be strengthened in line with the aspirations of Malaysia Madani,” he said.