The Selangor state government has introduced a new condition requiring individuals to be proficient and consistently use Bahasa Melayu in order to qualify for land ownership, and related property rights within the state.
Image credit: Berita Harian
Datuk Seri Amirudin Shari, the Selangor Menteri Besar announced that this requirement is part of efforts to ensure that only those who truly meet the cultural and constitutional definition of Malays are eligible under state’s Malay land quota.
He noted that being Malay or Bumiputera involves more than heritage, which includes practicing Malay customs, embracing Islam, and demonstrating the command of national language.
Strengthening national unity through language
During the launch of 2025 National Language Month (Selangor level), Amirudin explained that the policy of principle already found in the Federal Constitution and the key national regulations concerning land ownership, citizenship, and language use in the public spaces.
He emphasized that Bahasa Melayu plays a vital role in building national unity and identity, saying:
“It reveals the importance of Bahasa Melayu in influencing unity, patriotism, and a shared Malaysian identity.”
In addition, the Education Ministry Secretary-General Datuk Dr Aminuddin Hassim also in attendance at the event, who supported the policy’s aim to elevate the role of national language in public life.
Image credit: Selangor.travel
Commitment to language standards and cultural preservation
Amirudin also confirmed that Selangor fully aligned with the National Language Act, which requires all public signage including road and place name, to meet the standards set by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP).
He added this effort follows a longstanding call by Sultan of Selangor, Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, who has consistently urged for the greater use of Bahasa Melayu in both Jawi and Rumi scripts across the country.
“This decision underscores Selangor’s commitment to preserving the dignity of Bahasa Melayu, not only as the national language but also a unifying symbol for all Malaysians,” he said.
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