The role of the language of unity at higher education institution: Malaysian experience

Abstract

Malaysia, a multiethnic and multilingual country, has implemented a new language policy which made the Malay language as the national language and with the aim of uniting the Malaysians. While English, declared as the second language of the country, is seen as language of globalization and business. With the policy, the Malay language becomes the medium of instruction and also takes an important role in promoting national unity and integration among Malaysians of diverse ethnic groups and languages in schools and most institutions of higher education. Therefore, this paper presents the findings of an ongoing research conducted at a public university, with the aim of investigating the role of the Malay language at the university in enhancing unity. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the following questions are seen as vital –Does the Malay language function as the unifying factor and the tool for interaction in the education system especially in higher education institutions? Does the use of languages other than the Malay language hinder unity and integration? Data were obtained from a questionnaire administered on university undergraduates. The preliminary findings reveal that the Malay language promotes unity and the usage of different languages does not hinder unity and integration. Suggestions and recommendations for ways to improve unity among students will also be discussed.