COMMENT | This is not meant to humiliate any minister but I do have an important statement to make. I realise that it will not be a popular proposition but let me say it anyway for what it’s worth. I’m prepared for the brickbats and criticisms.

It is very important for ministers to speak well in English too. In fact, I strongly feel that should be made compulsory. If I may press on, I think that if you cannot handle English on the public stage, then you should not be a minister.

We can always argue that Bahasa Malaysia (not Bahasa Melayu, please) is the national language while English plays second fiddle in Malaysia.

Being able to speak English is not just about being able to communicate with native English speakers. It is clear that English is the global language. Thus, learning English and being able to speak the language is important as it enables you to communicate easily on the international arena.

Two video clips which went viral recently say a lot about how some in authority speak English in public. I don’t wish to be rude but I have to say it – it was horrendous...