Forum: Clearer guidelines needed to ensure accuracy in languages used in public communications

As a language lover, I wish to draw attention to a longstanding but often overlooked issue: the inaccurate use of Tamil in public communications.

From noticeboards and warning signs to name boards and important notices in hospitals and other public places, errors in Tamil spelling and translation are not uncommon. In some cases, the text appears as gibberish. While these mistakes may be unintended, their repeated occurrence undermines the dignity and authenticity of the language.

Whenever such errors are brought to my attention, often by members of the public, I approach the relevant organisations or owners to request corrections. Most respond positively and are willing to rectify the mistakes, suggesting that the problem lies not in resistance, but in the absence of clear standards and proper verification.

Just as we would not accept our name being spelt wrongly, speakers of a language feel hurt when their mother tongue is miswritten or misused. Tamil is not just a tool for communication; it embodies centuries of history, emotion and cultural identity. When it is treated carelessly in public spaces, it sends an unintended message of neglect.

In a multicultural society like Singapore, respect for language reflects respect for people. While English serves as the common working language, the four official languages ^_ English, Chinese, Malay and Tamil ^_ deserve equal care and consideration when used in public. I hope the relevant authorities will consider issuing clearer guidelines or a general language policy to ensure accuracy and accountability in public communications. Such guidance would help prevent avoidable errors and raise awareness of the importance of safeguarding linguistic dignity. Specifically:

Bringing attention to this issue is not about fault-finding, but about preserving respect, inclusiveness and cultural pride in our shared public spaces.

Muthalagu Meyyappan