Anwar Ibrahim's introduction of bahasa baku or a standardised pronunciation of the Malay words - should have been allowed to bear its fruits . The principle of pronouncing according to the spelling, and spelling according to the pronunciation is integral to the proper learning of the Malay language.

If the Indonesians seem to be pronouncing the language well, it is because they are taught thus. We, in Malaysia, consider the Johor-Riau pronunciation as standard Malay, but it does not adhere to the spelling in some instances.

The Malay linguists surely were with Anwar to promote a standardised Malay language that is spoken and written well throughout the country, transcending the various dialects and the colloquial forms.

Thus, the concept of bahasa baku was good for the national language, but the manner of implementation, and the non-cooperation of certain sectors of the mass media that had their own agenda, led to problems for students and teachers alike.

Rather than finding solutions to the problems and implement bahasa baku single-mindedly, the national leaders have made decisions that have presently allowed a free-for-all in the development of the national language, rendering the Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka largely ineffective. Maybe Dr Rais Yatim is currently looking into this matter, only time will tell.

I for one still believe that Anwar had the vision and courage to move the development of the national language in the right direction.

Anyone familiar with the development of the national language will acknowledge that Anwar's fall from power has indeed seen a fall in the status of the language in this country.