(Miri, 29th) Sarawak DAP Socialist Youth Chief, Peter Hii, stated that in recent years, some politicians have deliberately stirred up religious and racial issues, and more recently the issue of language signage, attempting to incite racial sensitivities. This behavior is undoubtedly short-sighted, irresponsible, and despicable. Such actions not only harm societal harmony but may also impede the country's overall development. If they could redirect this energy towards promoting policy reform and national progress, Malaysia would be able to achieve greater prosperity and stability.
He said, Malaysia, as a secular nation of multiple races and cultures, has a deeply rooted societal reality of multilingualism. Article 152 of our Federal Constitution explicitly protects the freedom to use languages other than Malay. Therefore, the existence of multiple languages not only aligns with the constitutional spirit but is also a cultural asset of ours. Additionally, the regulations on signage by local governments do not prohibit the use of multiple languages, only requiring Malay to be the primary language. Such regulations maintain the status of the national language while respecting cultural diversity.
“In Malaysian society, multilingualism has become an asset. Whether it's young people fluent in multiple languages or non-Chinese Chinese singers and cultural workers, these examples illustrate that language diversity is one of the country's soft powers. In the international community, this characteristic undoubtedly earns Malaysia greater recognition.”
He also said, here I support the viewpoint of Malaysia's Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Tiong King Sing, that multilingual signage not only aids in reflecting the nation's diverse characteristics but also creates conditions to attract international tourists. Thailand’s successful case serves as the best example, where Thailand, through multilingual signs, makes tourists feel convenience and respect, thereby promoting the rapid development of its tourism industry. Malaysia can certainly adopt a similar approach to further enhance its international reputation, attract more tourists, and inject vitality into economic growth.
“Multilingual signage is not only a window showcasing Malaysia's cultural diversity but also an important tool for promoting national unity. Some people, however, choose to use such topics to create division, which not only affects the country's image but also erodes people's trust in politics. As citizens, we should collectively uphold the nation's diverse values and reject such divisive acts.”
He said, let us, with a spirit of unity, jointly promote Malaysia to become a nation that respects multiculturalism and inclusiveness, laying a more solid foundation for the future development of the country.
“In Malaysian society, multilingualism has become an asset. Whether it's young people fluent in multiple languages or non-Chinese Chinese singers and cultural workers, these examples illustrate that language diversity is one of the country's soft powers. In the international community, this characteristic undoubtedly earns Malaysia greater recognition.”
He also said, here I support the viewpoint of Malaysia's Minister of Tourism, Arts and Culture, Tiong King Sing, that multilingual signage not only aids in reflecting the nation's diverse characteristics but also creates conditions to attract international tourists. Thailand’s successful case serves as the best example, where Thailand, through multilingual signs, makes tourists feel convenience and respect, thereby promoting the rapid development of its tourism industry. Malaysia can certainly adopt a similar approach to further enhance its international reputation, attract more tourists, and inject vitality into economic growth.
“Multilingual signage is not only a window showcasing Malaysia's cultural diversity but also an important tool for promoting national unity. Some people, however, choose to use such topics to create division, which not only affects the country's image but also erodes people's trust in politics. As citizens, we should collectively uphold the nation's diverse values and reject such divisive acts.”
He said, let us, with a spirit of unity, jointly promote Malaysia to become a nation that respects multiculturalism and inclusiveness, laying a more solid foundation for the future development of the country.