I WISH to comment on the use of the Malay word “bangsat” from the academic and sociological perspective. It is not intended to chastise or criticise anyone. It is merely looking at its etymological characteristics and its sociological application.
A word on its own is mere sound, sonic order. It acquires meaning through its usage to associate it with certain facets of natural or man-made phenomena that may refer to tangible and intangible attributes. A word can also be value loaded, which can be positive or negative, depending on the sentiments of the context.
Thus, the word “bangsat” implies bereft of self-esteem, pride, integrity and intellectual capacity, and helplessness.
When applying this word to an ethnic group, it can be construed or misconstrued as derogatory or just a warning to motivate support. It all depends on the intention.
In this case, it was applied to Malays who would suffer such a fate if they abandon a political ideology.
I feel Malays are more resilient than to succumb to such a fate. History has shown Malays to be a resourceful ethnic group, steeped in tradition and adat. They were excellent seafarers.
They were adept at making sea- worthy vessels, armaments and other implements such as weapons and jewellery. Their intellectual acumen is displayed in numerous hikayat, kitab, pantun, gurindam, syair and chronicles.
They are a civilised lot, having developed a system of monarchy in the Malay archipelago. Thus, the dignity of Malays is neither dependent nor subservient to a political ideology, much so in the technological age of the 21st century.
MOHAMED GHOUSE NASURUDDIN, UNIVERSITI SAINS MALAYSIA, PENANG