Mother tongue not at risk of extinction, thanks to innovative learning modules
KOTA KINABALU (July 9): The rich vocabulary of Sabah's ethnic languages continues to thrive in the daily lives of their communities, providing a strong foundation for developing innovative language learning modules to combat the threat of language extinction.
Senior lecturer at Universiti Malaysia Sabah (UMS), Dr Henry Bating, said the innovation of basic speech modules requires extra effort to promote mother tongues among ethnic group members, particularly the younger generation.
'Language learning innovations are possible because each ethnic group has members trained in language pedagogy. They can contribute significantly to their community's efforts in developing basic guidelines for preserving their native languages,' he said.
However, Henry emphasized that initiatives and collective efforts among community leaders and advocates must support the richness of a language's vocabulary and the pedagogical expertise within a community.
Henry, who is also the chairperson of the Kadazandusun Language at the Centre for the Promotion of Knowledge and Language Learning (PPIB), UMS, made these remarks while reviewing two books published by Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP), 'Rumah Tradisi Kadayan' and 'Bhahul: Puisi Etnik Rungus' during DBP's 69th anniversary celebration held at the Sabah International Convention Centre (SICC).
The book discussion, moderated by Lailah Elok, also featured the authors of the two books, Jamaidah Yahya and Dr Raymond Majumah.
According to Henry, Jamaidah's book on the Kadayan community, predominantly found in Sipitang, Beaufort and Labuan, highlights numerous nouns, verbs and adjectives in the Kadayan language, making it feasible to systematically develop Kadayan language learning modules.
Raymond's book showcases the philosophy, worldview and way of life of the Rungus community, serving as a valuable source for introducing Rungus literature, language and cultural universality.
Also present at the national-level event were DBP Sabah director Jennitah Noordin, deputy director Julianah Kuli, Publishing Unit head Noorzanani Kata, as well as trainee teachers from IPG Gaya and Kent campuses.
Henry added that learning ethnic languages can be integrated into cultural preservation efforts, such as those proposed in the Kadayan book, which suggests implementing traditional preservation through homestay business ventures.
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