Poser over DBKL's selective Malay language signboard enforcement

Kuala Lumpur City Hall’s (DBKL) recent fining of five shops in the city for having signboards without Malay language or with the Malay language not prominently displayed has raised questions of double standards.

While fully supporting taking action in accordance with the law against non-compliant businesses, MCA deputy youth chief Mike Chong Yew Chuan emphasised that the law must be applied equally.

In a statement today, Chong said DBKL’s enforcement must be fair, professional, and consistent, without double standards or selective enforcement.

He questioned why the five shops with Chinese-language signboards were targetted, adding that the public was puzzled as many signboards in Kuala Lumpur lack the national language, with some using English or other languages.

“For example, several well-known shopping malls and many chain fast-food outlets, convenience stores, and retail shops only have English names.

“There are also restaurants with Arabic signboards that lack Malay words. Does DBKL have an issue with these malls and shops?"

“Will they take similar action against these well-known businesses? Otherwise, it would create the impression that DBKL is selectively targeting smaller businesses,” he questioned.

BM words lacking

A Facebook post dated Oct 11, titled “Still don't understand Bahasa? DBKL forced to take action!” showed the enforcement agency taking action against five outlets found to have violated the Advertisement (Federal Territory) By-laws 1982.

“Although the regulations have been in place for a long time, it seems that some premises around Bukit Bintang still don’t understand or are pretending to forget the importance of the Malay language.

“It seems they prefer to display other languages. No worries, we’ll remind them with fines and notices. Now, they have 14 days to remove the signs, or further action will be taken.”

Responding to DBKL’s remark, Chong lamented that it showed emotional speculation or assumptions in DBKL’s enforcement process.

“This accusation is baseless and irresponsible speculation. Such remarks are unprofessional for a government institution like DBKL and could incite ethnic divisions and dissatisfaction, threatening national harmony and unity.”

“DBKL should remain calm and rational when enforcing the law without unnecessarily creating bigger conflicts. Otherwise, double standards in enforcement and emotional remarks will only damage DBKL’s credibility, weaken its authority, and give people something to criticise.”

He hoped that in future enforcement, DBKL would handle similar issues with a more rigorous, fair, and professional attitude, giving all businesses an equal opportunity to correct any violations.

PKR leader schools Ong, recalls Anwar painting over English signboards

YOURSAY | National language important, but so is English proficiency

PM chides 'elite groups' for undermining national language

Higher participation in Malay programmes for vernacular students