Malaysia primarily follows British English, especially in formal writing and education, although American English influences spoken language and colloquialisms.
While British English serves as the foundation for written communication, the actual usage is more nuanced. Here's a breakdown:
- Written English: Generally adheres to British English standards in terms of spelling, grammar, and vocabulary. This is particularly true in official documents, academic writing, and formal correspondence.
- Spoken English (Manglish): Colloquial Malaysian English, often called "Manglish," is a unique blend incorporating Malay, Chinese dialects, Tamil, and elements influenced by both British and American pronunciations. This local accent makes it distinct from both pure British and American English. You might hear American pronunciations creeping into everyday conversation.
Key Differences & Influences
| Feature | British English | American English | Malaysian English (Manglish) Influence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spelling | colour, centre, realise | color, center, realize | British spelling generally followed in written form. |
| Vocabulary | flat (apartment), holiday (vacation) | apartment, vacation | Mixture, with some British terms being replaced by American ones over time, especially in media. |
| Pronunciation | Received Pronunciation (RP) | General American (GA) | Heavily influenced by local languages and accents. Can exhibit American-influenced pronunciations in some cases. |
| Grammar | More formal and conservative | More flexible and evolving | British grammar generally, but with simplifications and local expressions. |
| Everyday Speech | Often more formal in casual contexts | Often more relaxed and direct | Very informal, influenced by Malay, Chinese, and Tamil. |
Education
In Malaysian schools, textbooks and curricula are designed around British English. Students are taught British spelling and grammar rules. However, exposure to American media (movies, TV shows, music) leads to some familiarity with American English vocabulary and pronunciation.
Conclusion
While written English in Malaysia is rooted in British English, spoken English is a dynamic and evolving mix influenced by local languages, British English, and increasingly, American English. Therefore, saying Malaysia "follows" either exclusively is an oversimplification.
