Azirah Hashim

This presentation traces the evolution of English in Malaysia from its introduction during British colonial rule to its contemporary role in a multilingual nation shaped by shifting language policies and global demands. Despite the elevation of Malay as the national and official language following independence, English has retained a significant presence in education, business, media, and international engagement. It examines how English has been localised through the development of Malaysian English, a distinct variety shaped by interactions among Malay, Chinese, Indian, and indigenous languages and cultures. Malaysian English serves as an important marker of identity, reflecting local communicative norms and cultural values. At the same time, attitudes toward Malaysian English reveal ongoing tensions between local ownership of English and the continued prestige of external standard varieties. Situating Malaysia within the wider Southeast Asian context, the presentation also explores the regional significance of English as a lingua franca for cross-border communication, economic integration, and participation in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). It argues that Malaysia's experience illustrates how English can simultaneously function as a global language, a national resource, and a vehicle for local identity. By examining the evolution, localisation, and regional role of English in Malaysia, this presentation highlights the dynamic and pluralistic nature of English in Southeast Asia and contributes to ongoing discussions about the future of English in multilingual societies.