Mohd Azam (left) delivering Fadhlina’s speech at the opening ceremony.
BAHASA Malaysia (BM) is the national language and the core of our identity, while English is the language of international communication, providing not only a career advantage but also access to knowledge and global networking.
Mastering both, said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek, is equally important and must be prioritised, as the role of languages has become more important in an increasingly complex world.
“The ministry’s National Upholding the Malay Language and Strengthening the Command of English (MBMMBI) Carnival 2024 is an important platform for us to instil a spirit of love for language, knowledge and culture, creating a legacy for future generations,” she said in her speech at the launch of the carnival on Oct 24 at the Bahasa Melayu Campus, Institute of Teacher Education Malaysia (IPGM), Kuala Lumpur.
The MBMMBI policy, she added, is a crucial component of the ministry’s efforts to nurture bilingualism among students.
“In the context of national education transformation, this policy aligns with the goal of 21st century education by emphasising bilingual skills – an important aspect to ensure our students can communicate effectively at the international level without forgetting their national identity,” Fadhlina said, with her speech read by IPGM rector Dr Mohd Azam Ahmad.
Themed “Linguistic Art as a Vehicle of Madani Culture”, she said the carnival, held from Oct 24 to 25, served to highlight the important role of language as a medium of unity, in line with the principles of Madani Malaysia, which emphasise humanity, equality and harmony.
Fadhlina added that the carnival also aligned with the aspirations of the National Education Transformation plan, focusing on improving the quality of education so that students are not only proficient in language but also able to use it as a tool for unity.
Teacher trainees checking out the language teaching tools at the carnival.
Supporting the Education Ministry’s reform agenda, the carnival was organised by the MBMMBI special language task force.
The National MBMMBI Carnival 2024 was driven by the idea that language proficiency cannot be improved merely through lessons – students need to immerse themselves in the language and use it in different settings, especially in a casual environment.
Held for the first time, the carnival aimed to jointly promote BM and English, with equal priority given to both.
The event also brought to life Sahabat Bahasa (Language Friend), an initiative to cultivate and encourage the use of BM and English activities among ministry-affiliated students and institutions.
Designed to create a dynamic mentoring relationship between friends to strengthen their language knowledge, skills, values and ethics, Sahabat Bahasa is emphasised across all IPGM campuses and is central to the ministry’s plan to implement the MBMMBI programme nationwide.
The choral speaking group from SMK Putrajaya Presint 8 (1) performing during the MBMMBI Carnival launch.
Language activities and programmes to enhance BM and English proficiency were carried out both inside and outside classrooms, with activity updates shared on various official social media platforms of educational institutions.
Hashtags such as #semarakmbmmbi and #sahabatbahasa were created to spark community engagement.
These activities, said Fadhlina, provided an avenue for ministry staff, especially teacher trainees, to develop their talents and appreciate the beauty of language and culture in a fun and creative setting.
“We not only continue our local traditions, but also instil a love for language and culture among the younger generation,” she said, adding that the activities encouraged participants to reconnect with Malaysia’s rich linguistic heritage.
“This aspect reflects the wisdom of our ancestors and emphasises the art of language as an important medium for building a nation that is highly civilised,” she said, adding that it underscores the values of unity, tolerance and mutual respect.
Competitions to enhance English language skills, such as public speaking, poetry recitation, skits and vocal ensembles, were also held, she said, as these are essential for building confident citizens who are fluent in English and are able to express themselves effectively in the language.
