PM Orders Malay Language Prioritized in All Government Communication
Translated from Malay, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has directed that the Malay language must be prioritized in all government communication materials for disseminating state policies.
- This directive applies to official presentations, video clips, montages, corporate videos, and other communication assets.
- The Prime Minister's Office, through the Public Service Department (JPA), will conduct audits and monitoring to ensure compliance with this directive, which aligns with national language laws.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has issued a directive mandating the absolute prioritization of the Malay language in all government communication materials used to disseminate state policies. This instruction was emphasized during the National Climate Change Action Council Meeting.
The Public Service Department (JPA) stated that the Malay language must be used in official presentations, video clips, montages, corporate videos, and any other communication materials. This move aims to strengthen the use of Malay within the public service, particularly in official meeting presentations and the organization of programs such as training, seminars, and other events.
To ensure adherence to this directive, the JPA will implement periodic audits and monitoring of Malay language empowerment initiatives within ministries and departments. This measure is intended to guarantee compliance with the Prime Minister's instructions.
The government places significant importance on the use of the Malay language in all official public service affairs, in accordance with Article 152 of the Federal Constitution and the National Language Act 1963/67. This principle is further reinforced through the Human Resources Service Circular (MyPPSM), specifically Ceraian PO.1.1.1 concerning the empowerment of the Malay language in public service. The JPA has also previously issued a circular on October 29, 2025, regarding the use of Malay in all official dealings, extending this to all State Public Services, Statutory Bodies, and Local Authorities.
Originally published by Utusan Malaysia in Malay. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.