MalayMail/Bernama-May 8
The Malay language is gaining growing prominence in China, with at least 17 higher learning institutions now offering Malay-related programs amid strengthening regional and economic ties between Malaysia and China. This development is evident with at least 17 higher learning institutions in China now offering Malay language-related courses, including full degree programs, reflecting growing interest in the language and civilization of the Malay world. National language and literary figure Senator Datuk Seri Professor Dr Awang Sariyan said of the total, 13 universities offer four-year Malay language degree programs covering various aspects, comparable to programs at local universities such as Universiti Malaya and Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris. “This is highly encouraging because Malay language studies in China are not limited to linguistics alone, but encompass all aspects of civilization such as literature, culture, history, media and socioeconomics. “The comprehensive approach also includes analytical training on current issues in Malaysia, including local media content, thereby helping students understand the real context of the Malay society and the country,” he told Bernama. Awang, who is also honorary adviser to the Centre for Malay Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University (BFSU), said besides degree programs, two higher learning institutions offer three-year diploma programs in Malay language studies, while several other universities provide Malay language courses for international relations purposes. According to Awang, the development has also extended beyond universities, with teacher training colleges and secondary schools in southern China beginning to offer Malay language as an elective subject. “In less than a decade, the growth has been very significant. When I first went to China, only three universities offered Malay language degree programs, but now the number has increased rapidly,” said Awang, who previously held the Malaysian Government Chair of Malay Studies in China from 2008 to 2011 and from 2016 to 2018. Read more at:
