PAS MP Proposes Jawi Script Option for MyKad and Digital Government Documents

KUALA LUMPUR: A PAS lawmaker has called for the inclusion of the Jawi script as an option on MyKad and official digital government documents, saying it would help preserve national heritage and strengthen the identity of Malaysians.

The proposal was raised in Parliament, where the MP argued that Jawi, once widely used in administration, education, and cultural affairs, should not be sidelined in the modern era of digitalization.

“Offering Jawi as an option on identity cards and government documents would not only reflect Malaysia’s rich history but also promote greater appreciation of our linguistic and cultural diversity,” the lawmaker said.

The MP emphasized that the move would be optional, allowing citizens to choose whether to include Jawi script alongside the existing Romanized text.

The proposal is expected to spark debate, as previous initiatives to promote Jawi in schools and official platforms have drawn mixed reactions from different communities.