What is language? If you were to ask different people, you would likely receive a variety of answers. Some might describe it as a system of communication, while others may see it as an essential part of culture and identity.
But at its core, language is a bridge – one that connects people, allowing them to share ideas, emotions, and experiences.
As someone fluent in English, Mandarin and Malay, I have always found languages to be incredibly fascinating. Each one is unique, carrying its own history, structure, and nuances.
Yet, despite their differences, all languages serve the same fundamental purpose: they allow us to communicate. They bridge gaps between cultures and bring people closer together, reminding us that, despite our diverse backgrounds, we share a common need to connect.
INTERNATIONAL MOTHER LANGUAGE DAY
Held annually on February 21, International Mother Language Day is dedicated to promoting awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity alongside multilingualism.
So, why February 21? This date was specifically chosen to commemorate the individuals killed during the 1952 Bengali Language Movement – a movement that fought against the government’s decision to name Urdu as the official language in modern-day Bangladesh.
Did you know there are approximately 8,324 known languages spoken across the globe? Of these, only 23 languages are spoken by more than half of the world’s population today.
When considering how many people this affects over the years, the importance of International Mother Language Day becomes increasingly clear.
THE MORE, THE MERRIER
Learning a new language isn’t the daunting task people make it out to be – if anything, it can be an exciting and rewarding journey.
Thanks to technology, picking up a new language has never been more accessible. Apps like Duolingo and Babbel offer engaging ways to learn at your own pace, making the process feel less like a chore and more like a fun challenge.
If you’re someone who loves exploring new cultures or enjoys a good intellectual challenge, why not give language learning a try? After all, there’s no downside to expanding your horizons.
BUT WHY LEARN A NEW LANGUAGE, YOU ASK?
It’s a bridge to new friendships, deeper connections, and a broader understanding of the world. When we can communicate with people from different backgrounds, we open doors to experiences we might have otherwise missed.
Reflecting on my study abroad experience in Japan, I realised just how crucial language can be in forming connections.
My Japanese roommate and I might never have built a friendship if we didn’t share a common language – English. It was through this shared language that I made incredible friends, navigated my time abroad, and fully immersed myself in a new culture.
Looking back, I regret not learning more Japanese while I was there. Beyond the simple phrases my roommate taught me, I often wondered how much deeper our conversations could have been if I had made more effort.
So, take this as a sign – pick up that language you’ve been curious about. The world is full of conversations waiting to happen.
NEVER FORGET YOUR ROOTS
I firmly believe that our mother tongue is an integral part of our identity. It shapes who we are, connects us to our heritage, and carries the legacy of our ancestors.
With that in mind, I encourage everyone to take pride in their mother tongue!
Whether your first language is Malay, Mandarin, English, or a rare dialect spoken by only a few, no language is superior or inferior to another.
Unfortunately, some people feel embarrassed about speaking their native language, fearing it might be perceived as unsophisticated or outdated.
Many languages today are fading away as people choose not to pass them on. This loss carries serious consequences – entire cultures disappearing into oblivion. Imagine a child wanting to share their cultural heritage with friends but being unable to express it – an unsettling thought, isn’t it?
Languages are a beautiful gift, and I hope we all find the courage not only to learn new ones but also to preserve and cherish our own.
At the end of the day, our mother tongue is not just a means of communication – it is a vital part of who we are and should be honoured with pride. – Jolene See
