Language does not necessarily denote that the people of a nation are essentially patriotic.

Open-mindedness, advancement in knowledge and progressive education are factors that could forge and merge the people of a nation to be nationalistic and patriotic. In fact, English and the national language both have their merits in forging this sense of love towards the country.

The national language is without doubt the lingua franca that socially bridges the people of this country. It is indisputably the definitive language of the nation. All Malaysians should be proud to speak and write in the language of our great nation.

The national language has become the atma of the nation it defines our culture, our society and our lifestyle. Every patriotic Malaysian should learn to master the language with pride as the identity of a nation is reflected upon by the splendour of its language.

What's more, being nationalistic and patriotic also means observing the accomplishments of its people in life.

The philosophy of modern education, likewise, advocates that knowledge is a universal tool, indispensable for the betterment of mankind. People of any creed or race want to achieve betterment in life and they constantly seek ways to it through the acquirement of knowledge.

For this purpose, the English language, by design or default, has become a vital instrument for many of us to step forward in life both materially and spiritually.

Materially, this language has indubitably become a universal tool for success. From newspapers to the computer and business world, English is conveniently used by a majority of the world's population.

It has become an academic and commercial language desired by both intellectuals and the ordinary.

There are more books written on Islam, for instance, in the English language than any of the other languages of the world, thus spiritually relating the Islamic world to the world's communities.

The English language is so adept and flexible that all religious and philosophical thoughts found in the world can be conveyed through this tongue and this in consequence fosters the world to appreciate the religions and philosophies of others with less difficulty.

Many of our present and past leaders have mastered the English language and availed themselves to opportunities for the betterment of the country - but this had never at any point in their lives made them less patriotic to the nation.

They have used English as a vehicle to bring development to the nation and to prop up Malaysia internationally.

In no way has this idea of emphasising English for education and business in a multi-cultural community served to dilute our sovereignty or our national identity.

Politicians, academics and businessmen are whining and griping about the need for Malaysians to beef up their command of English. There is sum and substance to this.

The less English is spoken by citizens, the less they will acquire state-of-the-art knowledge. No one can deny that over 90 percent of the current knowledge media utilises the English language.

It's by opening the minds of the people to acquire knowledge that causes them love the country more. Boundless knowledge is the key to awareness and patriotism.

The English language could play a role in lubricating this process. We often blame language and have the loyalty and patriotism of citizens called into question.

In fact, studies have shown that it is patriotism, not exclusively language or ethnicity, that have forged nations together and brought progress to their citizens.