Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said giving students the chance to master languages beyond Malay brings clear advantages to Malaysia.
Speaking at the Huazong 2026 Chinese New Year celebration here today, he stressed that strengthening proficiency in the Malay language remains a top priority.
Value of multilingual skills for the nation
Anwar pointed out that mastery of Chinese, for example, is essential because of its growing role in the economy and investment.
“In an independent, sovereign and democratic country, everyone must accept that embracing and providing space for the development of other languages is advantageous, not detrimental,” he said.
He added that parents make language choices for their children, as long as Malay’s status is respected and the nation’s history is understood.
“Besides Malay, English and Chinese are important. Chinese has now become a key economic language in Asia and globally,” Anwar explained.
He noted that many universities in the West now offer Chinese as an elective and preferred language.
No conflict between Malay and other languages
Anwar said Malaysia gains nothing by viewing the promotion of Chinese proficiency as a disadvantage while continuing to strengthen Malay as the official language.
Also present at the event were Transport Minister Anthony Loke, Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, Huazong President Lim Kah Chuan, and Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing.
Call to focus on economy and unity
The Prime Minister observed that Malaysia sometimes gets caught up in minor issues, including sensitive and racial matters.
“We forget that if the economy is weak, if investments do not increase, there is no hope for our young people in terms of employment and education,” he said.
He urged a return to focus on economic progress and the interests of the people.
“Success is not about pleasing one or two groups, but about focusing on economic matters and the interests of the people,” Anwar added.
He expressed confidence that with the right mindset, Malaysia holds strong potential for a promising future through unity, hard work, and efforts to raise the country’s standing.
Anwar called on Malaysians to stand together against small groups and individuals who provoke racial issues.
“Those who create problems and are constantly angry represent a small group. The majority of citizens want a peaceful country, a strong economy, and respect for all cultures and religions,” he said.
“We are sometimes influenced by the views of a small minority. Most people want peace, unity, and prosperity. We must not allow the troublemakers to dominate,” he concluded.
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