Forum: Be mindful of others in terms of language use

UPDATED Jun 10, 2025, 05:00 AM

Thanks for sharing!

I agree with ST correspondent Elisha Tushara (‘Can you say that in English?’ Why a common tongue matters, June 7).

Whether in public or private settings, the language spoken is likely to be one that the majority in their midst are comfortable with, be it Mandarin, Malay or Tamil.

This being so, those who form the majority during gatherings or meetings should be mindful of the others who may feel isolated owing to their inability to understand the language used.

While it is acceptable to use any of the three main languages where the majority participants are comfortable and familiar with, we can also include English, our lingua franca, to ensure better understanding and inclusiveness.

Whatever it is, sensitivity in our multiracial and multicultural society is apparent.

I recall how a Chinese businessman invited his 12 employees for dinner at a Muslim restaurant, instead of a Chinese one.

Although there was only one Malay among them, the Chinese employees did not mind having Muslim food because they wanted to ensure that he would not be left out.

This anecdote is a good example of an inclusive and accommodating society, and it augurs well for our future.

Jeffrey Law Lee Beng

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Thanks for sharing!