Manglish?

I have a Malaysian friend visiting us. They were disappointed with the Famous Jalan Kayu Roti Prate. So we bring them to Thomson Road Roti Prata. Over the crispy pratas, we had an interesting conversation about the English in Malaysia. It is so bad and mixed up. The best part is the Malaysians with horrible English think their English are good. The most basic and simple rules of grammar are violated all the time. They think they are doing it right and reject any feedback on their poor English.

The standard responses is "Noted" which mean I am Not listening or I am Ignoring you. It is amazing that they can mangle up English so badly that it is painful and pathetic to hear them speak. I am no English expert nor am I self-righteous.

While many Malaysians love to mangle up English, many do who speak well and write well. Malaysian are so good with many dialects and speak Malay well. MM Lee is right. There are only so many languages you can learn, but to master of even two language is a daunting challenge for most of us.

It is very interesting that my friend's wife is a Singaporean and is of the opinion it is better for their kids to stay as Malaysians for better future. Then continue to relate how they have experienced two burglaries in their home and many of their tenants do not pay rents for the properties they rented out. It is very interesting. She gave us lots of advice like not to wear expensive clothing or jewelleries, must dress like "aunties" etc. It is obvious she loves Malaysia even though the country has so many warts.