KUCHING: Political observer Datuk Peter Minos concurred with the Premier on the importance of the English Language and Mandarin in Sarawak.
According to him, both languages are important to progress and further develop the economy of the state.
“This is both a fact and reality. With English, Sarawak will definitely go far, especially if Sarawakians are proficient in it.
“As it is a global language, English is used in most aspects of life and is a key source of knowledge. From modern science to technology and almost all aspects of life, English is indispensable.
“One can say that without a good command of both written and spoken English, life in the world we now live in will be greatly handicapped and stunted,” he said in a statement yesterday.
As for Mandarin, he pointed out that China had become an economic super power and would most likely surpass the United States by 2050 or earlier.
“Most economists say so and I agree with them. Hence, knowing China and Mandarin is becoming a must because soon, we will be dealing with China more and more from trading to all other things.
“Therefore, I believe we will gain everything by mastering Mandarin,” he said.
Minos also clarified that mastering both languages did not mean Bahasa Melayu (BM) would be neglected.
“We need BM as a domestic language for everything too, especially for unity and local communication. However, it is best that we, Malaysians, try to master all three languages.
“It is definitely a wise policy move for Sarawak to master them, This is because we are looking to a progressive and advanced Sarawak.
“Thus, it is wise that we think straight and right with the right basics, namely, the languages and the education system,” he said.
“It is true that we cannot shape how others think and do.
“But we can definitely shape our own destiny by doing it right from the beginning. That is why I think that mastering English and Mandarin will be a good start for all,” he said.
