Literature of Malaysia

What is Malaysian literature? “those writings (drama, novel, short story, play and verse) which by emotion, identification, description, social context and involvement relate to Malaysia …whether written in Malay, Chinese, Tamil or English.” ~Han Suyin (1966)

Malaysian literature Malay literature (kesusasteraan Melayu) = National literature vs. Literatures in English, Chinese, Tamil Sectional literature (kesusasteraan sukuan)

Decolonization (following independence in 1957): the use of Malay cultural and political symbols as the basis for Malaysian national culture, identity and unity the growth & institutionalization of the Malay language (& the literature written in it) e.g. DBP - 1959 National Language Act - 1967 National Language Bill - 1969

Conflicting approaches on nation building: “Nationalism” vs. “Nationism” ~ Fishman (1968) “Nationalism” Natural relationship between language & literature Language not only symbolic of the nation but also the medium of expression of the nation’s people Language and literature must represent continuity with the past

“Nationism” Unity and integration can be achieved on the basis of shared common political symbols and values Maintain the existing socio-cultural status quo Difference between political identity and cultural identity

MLIE “…facets of the Malaysian reality.” “… enable Malaysians to know and consider the beliefs, the conflicts, dreams and hang-ups of the other communities in the neighbourhood and to realise whilst there are differences, there are also similarities.” ~ Fadillah Merican et. al (2004)