THE use of languages other than Bahasa Malaysia in the Penang State Legislative Assembly briefly sparked a light-hearted exchange today, offering a humorous interlude during an otherwise routine sitting.
State Deputy Chief Minister II Jagdeep Singh Deo (PH–Datok Keramat), who was midway through responding to an oral question from Teh Lai Heng (PH–Komtar), found himself gently reminded to stick to the national language after he interspersed his speech with some English.
While most of Jagdeep’s reply on how the state can collaborate further with multinational corporations (MNCs) to strengthen the ecosystem via technology transfer, talent development, and alignment of TVET and STEM programmes was delivered in Bahasa Malaysia, he switched momentarily to English to underscore a point.
“The world is moving too fast and we cannot be left behind. And we will not be left behind … under our watch, I am sure,” Jagdeep said, prompting Azmi Alang (PN–Telok Ayer Tawar) to interject and ask if he could speak in Bahasa Malaysia.
Momentarily stunned, Jagdeep replied with a smile in Bahasa Malaysia, noting that he had in fact begun his response in the national language.
The exchange quickly took a humorous turn when Jagdeep quipped, “Di SPM (Sijil Pelarajan Malaysia), Telok Ayer Tawar dapat apa dalam Bahasa Malaysia? Boleh jawab? Berani jawab?” (In SPM, what grade did Telok Ayer Tawar get for Bahasa Malaysia? Can answer? Dare to answer?) — drawing laughter from both sides of the House.
He cheekily added that if Azmi did not understand English, he would be happy to offer lessons after finishing his reply in Bahasa Malaysia, further lightening the mood in the House.
As Azmi stood up to respond, Jagdeep playfully told him to sit down, much to the amusement of the assembly.
State Speaker Datuk Seri Law Choo Kiang then timely stepped in, advising Jagdeep that it would be best to continue his remarks in Bahasa Malaysia — a suggestion Jagdeep good-naturedly accepted.
“I’ve been in this Assembly for 18 years,” Jagdeep said with a grin, drawing chuckles even from the Opposition bench. “Even the Speaker doesn’t know what to do with Datok Keramat!”
“But you know, I’m doing my job — for the people of Penang,” he added, as backbenchers thumped their desks in approval, before returning to Bahasa Malaysia for the remainder of his response
The atmosphere soon settled, with proceedings continuing smoothly — a reminder that a little humour can go a long way in diffusing tense moments.
Story by K.H. Ong
Pix by Siti Nuratikah Rahmat