Siti Nurhaliza says she feels more confident with speaking Malay as she was raised in a household that spoke entirely in the national language. Photo: Filepic
Malaysian artiste Datuk Seri Siti Nurhaliza has long been applauded for her ability to sing in multiple languages including Malay, English and Mandarin.
On Jan 28, Siti made headlines after delivering a perfect rendition of the classic Tamil track, Munbe Vaa, with popular Indian vocalist Haricharan Seshadri.
Despite her talent in singing in multiple languages, the Pahang-born superstar revealed that she actually lacks confidence in speaking English.
In a recent interview with Syok, the 44-year-old explained that she felt insecure speaking English as she grew up in a household that spoke entirely in the national language.
"I was raised in a family that does not use English to communicate. I grew up speaking Malay so it is easier for me to speak that language.
"I may lack confidence speaking English, but that is my only weakness. The truth is, I can speak the language overseas and with people who aren't judgemental ... but to fully master it requires lots of courage and practice," she shared.
Siti stressed that she does not see the inability to master said language as a barrier to success.
Using Japan as an example, the Jerat Percintaan hitmaker praised the Japanese for their ability to embrace their national language while still advancing as a forward-moving country.
"Look at how Westerners learn so much about technology from Japan even though the people still speak their mother tongue," she said.
In the video interview, Siti also advised those who are fluent in English not to belittle those who have yet to master the language.
"Don't think that just because we can't speak English, we can't go to other countries and make a name for ourselves internationally.
"There is nothing wrong with making mistakes (when learning a language). If someone points out my mistakes (in English), I will thank them because I have learned something new," she shared.
