Forum: Guidelines and resources for translation accuracy in official languages provided
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We thank Mr Muthalagu Meyyappan for his letter “ Clearer guidelines needed to ensure accuracy in languages used in public communications
We agree that the accurate use of all official languages in public communications is important in our multicultural society. Government agencies are encouraged to communicate in the relevant official languages to better serve and engage diverse communities.
The National Translation Committee (NTC) under the Ministry of Digital Development and Information has been working to address concerns like those raised by Mr Meyyappan through several initiatives.
To facilitate accurate translation of government communications materials, the NTC has identified a list of experienced translation providers that government agencies can engage to accurately translate, vet and proofread translations in all the official languages, including Tamil.
On the issue of gibberish Tamil text caused by software and printing errors, the NTC has also issued guidelines and conducted briefings for government agencies and their vendors on using correct encoding and compatible computer operating systems, as well as having a proper verification process, including careful checks, before the translated materials are printed.
More than 3,000 people have also signed up as citizen translators to help us flag translation errors in public spaces. This is one of the reasons why we started the Citizen Translators Project.
We receive an average of 15 reported errors each year, which allows us to immediately alert the relevant entity, whether government or otherwise, to rectify them.
Members of the public can also bring such errors to our attention through the NTC webpage.
We appreciate the care and pride that Singaporeans like Mr Meyyappan have for our official languages.
Together, we can work towards upholding standards for all our official languages in public spaces.
Mayna Teo
Director, Translation Department
Ministry of Digital Development and Information
