When words trigger tension in multiracial reality

RECENT weeks have seen growing concern over racial tensions in Malaysia. Public discussions involving the sensitive 3R issues (race, religion, and royalty) have intensified, particularly on social media and political forums. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim issued a warning to those who use the political strategy of focusing on the 3R issues. He said that this type of rhetoric may undermine our national unity.

Reports have suggested that the government may consider taking further steps to address growing racial tensions. There are narratives present that create a lack of trust among different communities, and the government has identified increasing concerns about these narratives.

In this situation there is a critical aspect that is often overlooked: racial tensions are frequently amplified by language. It is the deliberate choice of words that brings about divisions and tensions among communities.

The use of words in a political speech, on social media, or even in a simple dialogue can shift people’s perception of communities. In a multicultural society like Malaysia, the language used is not only a reflection of societal disparities but can also strengthen them.

Sociolinguists illustrate this phenomenon through the concept called “indexicality”. Simply put, indexicality refers to using words that give social meanings that are different from their literal meanings. The use of ethnic labels such as “the Malays”, “the Indians”, or “the Chinese” when referring to policies seems neutral but, due to context, may evoke deep tensions regarding identity, privilege, or marginalisation.

Ethnic or religious references in phrases can have far more meaning, or a deeper signal, than intended in Malaysia's multiracial context. When phrases such as “People from that community always behave like this", “This race is always the problem", or “This community cannot be trusted” are repeated in public discourse, they send strong markers of group cohesion, such as who is being criticised and who is being defended. This is why discourse around race and religion is so emotionally charged. The meaning of the phrases is the issue, and not what is literally being said.

Social media has intensified these dynamics. One comment, a catchphrase or a hashtag can spread like wildfire and get out of control. The more the message spreads, the more possible it is for communities to misconstrue the message and feel increased resentment. The prevailing context of this nature, can easily become a point of primary conflict.

The more divisive public discourse becomes, the more interethnic public cohesion is eroded, illustrating Malaysia's fragile history. Strengthening mutual respect and cooperation within the country’s communities is a great achievement; however, the interplay between various communities needs constant monitoring, especially when it comes to the impact of language.

Acknowledging the potential of indexicality does not imply avoiding the difficult issues of identity and inequality. These types of conversations, especially when dealing with issues of multiculturalism, are necessary. All of these conversations require special consideration of the impact the language used will have on the audience.

The essence of rational discourse is the recognition of the emotionally- and historically-laden nature of language. What may be perceived as a simple remark by one speaker may have different and potentially dangerous meanings for a particular community.

Thus, the existing critiques of the potential abuse of the 3R issues come from the need to foster a culture of responsible and considerate speech, which is a better understanding of the impact of the language that is used to describe people. The expression of the country’s diversity, which is Malaysia’s greatest asset, lies in thoughtful and careful speech by the members of the community and not just tolerance.

With public communication, the ringing reminder is that “words are important”. This is especially the case when we are holding a fragile trust that binds a multicultural nation together, and the choice of words is very important.

 DR NURUL KAMALIA YUSUF

Senior lecturer

Academy of Language Studies

Universiti Teknologi Mara (Seremban Campus)