LETTERS: The prime minister's proposal to teach Tamil as an additional language in schools should be welcomed.
It will allow students to connect with their heritage and foster a sense of pride in their cultural roots.
When students from various backgrounds learn Tamil, they can bridge cultural gaps and develop a deeper appreciation for each other's traditions, fostering a more harmonious society.
Beyond the boundaries of Malaysia, Tamil's global influence adds to the significance of this proposal. Tamil is not only spoken in India but also in Sri Lanka, Singapore, and several other countries with significant Tamil-speaking populations.
Spoken by millions around the globe, Tamil has left an indelible mark in fields such as literature, cinema, music and academia, contributing to the world's cultural tapestry.
Promoting the Tamil language in Malaysia can have positive implications for international relations. Strengthening ties with other countries where Tamil is widely spoken can foster cultural exchanges, trade and cooperation.
Moreover, this presents an opportunity for Malaysia to take an active role in global cultural diplomacy, showcasing its commitment to promoting linguistic diversity and cultural heritage.
The digital era has amplified the presence of the Tamil language. With the Internet providing a platform for global communication, Tamil has found its way into the digital realm, allowing for the preservation and dissemination of its culture and heritage on a worldwide scale.
By promoting the learning of Tamil, Malaysia can enhance its diplomatic relations with countries where the language holds prominence, thus opening new avenues for growth and collaboration.
Appreciating and recognising diverse languages contributes to a more tolerant and understanding community, which is essential in our ever-changing global landscape.
DR KINGSTON PAL THAMBURAJ
Senior lecturer, Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris
The views expressed in this article are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect those of the New Straits Times