Bahasa: Guide to Malay Languages

Bahasa: A Guide to Malay Languages explains common Malay words and their equivalent meanings in eight Nusantara languages of the Malay Archipelago: Banjar, Bawean, Buginese, Javanese, Malay, Minangkabau, Slitar and Tagalog. Personal anecdotes by the author and charming illustrations frame a brief history of the Malay peoples, offering a unique lesson in the anthropology and experience of these eight ethnic groups. As the presence of these languages in everyday conversations gradually diminishes, it is hoped that this book may revive interest in these languages and preserve knowledge for the benefit of generations to come. 

This guide is accessible to and may be enjoyed by readers of all ethnicities. Immerse yourself in the kaleidoscopic diversity of these Malay languages. May this book serve as a delightful introduction to the scintillating spirit of the different Malay ethnic groups, embodied in their mother tongues. What new words will you learn today?

Author: Hidayah Amin

Illustrator: Idris Ali

Foreword written by

Professor Emeritus Abdullah Hassan

Linguist, and retired Professor of Malay Language Studies and Dean of School of Humanities, Universiti Sains Malaysia

ISBN 978-981-11-3883-6

Genre: English, non-fiction

Format: Paperback

Size: 240mm (height) x 140mm (width)

Pages: 256 

Target audience: Readers aged 10 and above, educators, parents, general public

*The book was shortlisted for the 2018 Singapore Book Awards (Best Non-Fiction Title)