Anwar said he had chided some MPs and leaders who have not made the effort to master the national language.
“Whether you like it or not, parliamentary proceedings are in BM. Proficiency in the language is crucial.
“I do not speak of two or three MPs who just scream and shout and insult others. Those are low class (kelas bawahan).
“In our debates, we have to watch our language,” he said in his lecture at the Wisma Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) here today.
Present were Education Minister Maszlee Malik and DBP board of governors chairman Mohamed Hatta Shaharom.
Anwar also pointed out how some non-Muslim MPs in DAP were more fluent in the national language, putting their Malay counterparts in Parliament to shame.
“What needs to be done is for MPs to undergo a language course in DBP,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience.
He stated that in present times, he no longer had insecurities on the position of the national language, with multiracial groups having mastered the language.
“It is not a zero-sum game. In upholding BM, we do not sideline other languages such as English, Mandarin, Tamil or Arab. But without a firm language foundation, it will be hard for us to convince the people.
“We need to assure the people that we are not abandoning the national language and, at the same time, ensure this generation feels comfortable enough to master other languages,” he said.
Anwar went on to say that there are liberals who put English on a pedestal, and that one could only survive with English.
“They have that extraordinary air of arrogance among them.
“When we discuss the importance of BM, they think we are outdated and ancient. This is something we need to rectify,” he said.
He urged DBP to return to its role as a great cultural language centre and be inclusive of other races.
“Yes, DBP should preserve the Malay roots and culture. But this has to be extended to other groups living in the country, such as the Chinese, Indians, Kadazans and Ibans, so that they can also feel that this dewan can raise the dignity of all Malaysians.
“DBP must accept the fact that the reality now demands something different. A change. It must be inclusive. And they must do this quickly and courageously,” he added.