A new nationalist coalition forms councils to bolster the Malay language and culture, addressing concerns over declining use and marginalisation.
KUALA LUMPUR: A new nationalist coalition is establishing a series of councils to reinforce the Malay language and culture as the core of national identity.
The “Majlis-Majlis Mitra Gabungan Nasionalis” will serve as a unified platform for the Malay nationalist struggle.
It includes the Majlis Bahasa Negara, the National Culture and Heritage Council, the National Bumiputera Education Council, and the National Legislative Council.
Former Dewan Negara president Tan Sri Dr Rais Yatim officiated the council’s launch.
He expressed concern over the declining use of Malay among Malays, which he said affects cultural survival and national identity.
“Malay cultural heritage, including traditional dance and performing arts, is now increasingly marginalised and less recognised as a national identity,” Rais said.
He stressed the need for comprehensive solutions to restore Malay as the language of knowledge, culture, and life.
Gabungan Nasionalis chairman Aminuddin Yahaya highlighted the issue of weak Malay proficiency among youth.
He said this has direct implications for education, employability, and future national leadership.
To address this, the coalition has established a leadership institute.
The institute aims to produce a new generation of young leaders who are knowledgeable and grounded in the Malay language.
