SHAH ALAM - It's time to use the Malay language not only at your local coffee stall but also in formal settings while discussing economic and policy issues, said Bersatu's Deputy National Unity Minister Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal.
He said he aims to push the Malay language into all aspects of Malaysian life.
"I would like and would love to propagate and encourage more Malaysians to use our national language, Bahasa Melayu in all of their daily activities.
"Not just at the Kopitiam but also in economic or policy discussions so that everyone can understand what matters to the country," he told Sinar Daily's Politically Frank segment.
This comes as Putrajaya proposed to make Malay the second language of Asean and to uphold Malay in the corporate sector which saw a backlash from former minister Tan Sri Rafidah Aziz and Malaysia Employers Federation (MEF).
Rafidah had asked the government not to "syok sendiri" to push Malay in international engagements within the civil service. She said the International Trade and Industry Ministry (Miti) officers were previously "operating in an environment and culture that strives for excellence. "Already, now, the foreigners are complaining about this backsliding in policies and focus," she was quoted.
MEF told the government not to stunt our growth by sidelining English in the private sector. It said those with good command of English earner higher has they help companies succeed globally, they are able to negotiate for better terms in agreements and help build lasting relationships.
GE15
Wan Fayhsal further spoke on the 15th general election, stating that it should be held next year since it would make a difference to wait until the country’s economic recovery is getting better.
"GE15 should definitely be held next year because it will make a difference in regards to the economy of the country.
"Because once the government is able to come up with some measures that could alleviate the problems, the voter turnout GE15 next year would be higher,” he said.
When asked if he is still keen on contesting for Umno’s seat in Bagan Serai following Pas’ objection of him contesting for the seat, he said he will leave the decision to Bersatu leaders.
However, Fayhsal who is also the Titiwangsa chief division for Bersatu said it could be a potential seat for him to contest due to his current position there.
"It depends on how the party would decide later. I’m very much, at the moment, leaving the final decision to the party.
"I will abide by any decision that will be finalised later but since I am the Bersatu chief division at Titiwangsa, that could be a potential seat if the party decides for me to go there,” he added.
He also disagreed overviews that Bersatu lacks grassroots support, adding that surveys by various parties, including the Merdeka Centre shows Bersatu, within PN, has a sizable number of supporters that could tilt the balance for other parties when it comes to forming a coalition and forming government in the future.