English is used everywhere, in public transportation, announcement, etc. And major race is Chinese. So is the gov going to change official national language?
2006-06-20 05:26:58 · 5 answers · asked by plasmaisnoturs 3 in Society & Culture ➔ Languages
Hi hi.
I am very happy to answer question pertaining to my country.
Singapore have an National Language and 3 other official language.
This is a Malay Island, founded by Raffles back in 1819, and gained Independence in 1965. Surrounding us are also all Malay Speaking people. To honor the root of this strong ties, we have our language in Malay.
However, in school, everyone have to learn English and a second language (now known as mother tongue). All subject in school are taught in English.
Mother tongue depend on your race, for Chinese, Mandarin ; Malay, Bahasa; Indian, Tamil. (Most Indian in Singapore are from Southern India). Some non-Tamil Indian (vrey small group) may choose Hindi.
In the past, during my time, we use to be able to choose to take any 2nd language in school. During my sister's time, much earlier than me, they have to take 3 language. English as first language, mother tongue, and national language (Bahasa).
Now, in the office, most people will speak mandarin as a friendly language, but once come to official meeting, they will switch to English.
However, in the government, you may choose to speak any of the 4 accepted language. Most people will Speak English. Only a very small group, mainly the elderly, will use other language than English.
In the Army, working language is English, but the drill command is still Malay. Come 9 Aug, during the National Day Parade, you may notice that.
The official Language has never been changed eversince 1965. But the emphasis have shifted for second language. I understand they will stress more for Mandarin due to the trade with China.
2006-06-20 15:00:55 · answer #1 · answered by Melvin C 5 · 2⤊ 0⤋
Singapore National Language Malay
2017-01-14 03:10:20 · answer #2 · answered by burnell 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
yes u r right that singapore national language is malay though english is widely used because it's easy to communicate especially by local chinese; official languages: english, malay, mandarin and tamil
2016-05-20 05:02:47 · answer #3 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
So is the gov going to change official national language?
Ans: No.
btw are u from SG? if yes, that's seriously not a wise question... no offense. =)
2006-06-20 06:12:43 · answer #4 · answered by viper_xeno 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
I thought that like Canada..Singapore had two official languages...in their case one of them is mandarin.
I may be wrong.
2006-06-20 06:12:51 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋