Empower Bahasa Melayu as a digital platform

English has become the undisputed lingua franca of the internet and digitalization, profoundly shaping global communication, technology development, and even how people learn and build new innovations. The dominance is evident as most programming and digital content are created in English, leading to a perception that non-English languages are inferior and less capable of achieving success in the digital sphere.

However, the era of the internet does not solely necessitate English. Despite its prevalence, which covers about half of global internet content and digital programming, strategies exist to challenge this monopoly. Advanced AI translation tools, multilingual websites, and localized content policies can empower other languages to gain prominence online. The rapid advancements in AI, real-time translation, and natural language processing are creating significant opportunities for diverse languages to be used effectively.

Malaysia, in particular, is urged to leverage these developments by empowering its own capabilities. The nation should actively promote Bahasa Melayu, its national and official language, through various public technology platforms, including AI and digital services. This proactive approach is vital for preserving the nation's identity and the cultural identity of its people. Bahasa Melayu serves as a shared language that fosters pride, affection, and loyalty among all Malaysians, acting as a key identifier for the country on the global stage.