Understanding Malay Sign Language (BIM)

Malaysia is a country known for its rich linguistic diversity, with a blend of languages spoken and written by its multicultural population. However, did you know that Malaysia also has its own sign language? Let’s delve into the fascinating world of Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM), also known as Malay Sign Language, the principal language of the deaf community in Malaysia.

Table of Contents

The Malay Sign Language (BIM)
- History of BIM
- Significance of BIM within the Deaf Community
Origins and Development of BIM
Cultural Significance
Educational Impact
Challenges and Misconceptions
- Common Challenges and Misconceptions about BIM
  - Challenges:
  - Misconceptions:
- Need for Greater Public Awareness and Support
Sign Language Poetry
- The Artistry of Sign Language Poetry in BIM
Courses For Learning BIM
Why Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) Matters
Conclusion
FAQ
Reference

The Malay Sign Language (BIM)

Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM), also known as Malaysian Sign Language, is the language of communication for the Deaf community in Malaysia. It is a visual-gestural language that has its own syntax, grammar, and vocabulary, distinct from the spoken language of Bahasa Malaysia.

History of BIM

The history of BIM dates back to the establishment of the first school for the Deaf in Malaysia in 1954, where sign language began to develop organically among the students. Over the years, BIM has been influenced by various sign languages, including American Sign Language (ASL), due to the training of some Malaysian educators in the United States. However, BIM has evolved to incorporate unique signs reflective of Malaysian culture and context.

Significance of BIM within the Deaf Community

For the Deaf community in Malaysia, BIM is more than just a means of communication; it is an integral part of their identity and culture. It enables them to form a cohesive community with shared experiences and understanding. BIM is crucial for the Deaf in Malaysia as it provides access to education, empowers them to participate fully in society, and facilitates the expression of their thoughts, emotions, and cultural heritage.

BIM’s significance is also recognized by the Malaysian government, which has taken steps to promote its use in educational settings and public services, ensuring that the Deaf community has equal opportunities and access to information.

Origins and Development of BIM

The Roots

In 1954, the Federation School for the Deaf was established in Penang. Deaf students from various backgrounds began developing their own signs to communicate with each other. These signs eventually formed what is now known as Penang Sign Language.
In the early 1960s, Mr. Tan Yap, a pharmacist from Johor, studied interpretation and sign language in America. He introduced American Sign Language (ASL) to Malaysia and started teaching deaf children, nurses, and other hearing individuals how to sign.
From this ASL base, BIM began to take shape and evolve into its current form.

Dialects and Variants

Penang Sign Language: Commonly spoken by older deaf residents of Penang.
Selangor or Kuala Lumpur Sign Language: Diverged from BIM and ASL.
Indonesian Sign Language (BISINDO): Based on BIM.

KTBM: Not a Language, but a Coding System

Kod Tangan Bahasa Malaysia (KTBM) is not a language itself. Instead, it serves as a manual coding system representing the oral language of Bahasa Malaysia in a signed form.
KTBM is currently the only form of sign recognized by the Ministry of Education and is used to teach Malay in formal education settings.

Cultural Significance

Cultural Aspects of Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM)

Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) or Malay sign language, is not only a means of communication but also a cultural emblem that encapsulates the unique Malaysian identity.

It is a language that has developed its own grammar and syntax, independent of the spoken languages in Malaysia, and is tailored to the visual nature of the Deaf community.

BIM incorporates elements of Malaysian culture, making it distinct and representative of the nation’s diversity.

The Role of Activists and Organizations

Activists like Dr. Anthony Chong have been instrumental in advocating for BIM. Born deaf, Dr. Chong has dedicated his life to serving the Deaf community.

He co-founded the Malaysian Sign Language and Deaf Studies Association (MyBIM) in 2014, aiming to develop BIM further and improve the lives of the Deaf community in Malaysia.

His efforts include research, education, and the creation of sign language poetry, which adds an artistic dimension to BIM and celebrates its expressive potential.

MyBIM’s Contributions

MyBIM has been pivotal in promoting BIM and Deaf culture. It differentiates itself from other Deaf associations by focusing on research-oriented activities and striving to elevate BIM as a true language recognized and used by the public.

MyBIM’s initiatives include organizing activities, workshops, and projects that target not only the Deaf community but also the public, addressing misconceptions about BIM, and celebrating Deaf culture.

Through these collective efforts, BIM is gaining recognition and respect, not just as a language but as a vital part of Malaysia’s cultural heritage. The work of Dr. Chong and MyBIM highlights the importance of inclusivity and the acknowledgment of the Deaf community’s cultural and linguistic contributions to the nation’s identity.

Educational Impact

The Use of BIM in Educational Settings

Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) plays a crucial role in the education of Deaf students in Malaysia. In educational settings, BIM is used as the primary medium of instruction, enabling Deaf students to access the curriculum in a language that is natural and fully accessible to them. The use of BIM in schools ensures that Deaf children can develop cognitively and academically on par with their hearing peers.

Correspondence with Bahasa Malaysia

The importance of having a Malay sign language like BIM that corresponds with the oral language of Bahasa Malaysia cannot be overstated. It allows for a more seamless integration of Deaf individuals into the wider Malaysian society. By having a sign language that aligns with the national language, Deaf students can better relate to the cultural and linguistic context of their country, which is essential for their social and personal development.

Kod Tangan Bahasa Malaysia (KTBM)

In formal education, particularly in settings where Deaf and hearing students are educated together, the Kod Tangan Bahasa Malaysia (KTBM) is used. KTBM is a manual coding system that represents Bahasa Malaysia in a visual form. It uses handshapes and movements to code the spoken language, allowing for a bridge between BIM and Bahasa Malaysia. This system is particularly useful for teaching Deaf students literacy skills in Bahasa Malaysia, as it provides a visual counterpart to the spoken words.

The use of BIM and KTBM in educational settings is vital for the cognitive and linguistic development of Deaf students, ensuring they have the same opportunities for learning and communication as hearing students.

Challenges and Misconceptions

Common Challenges and Misconceptions about BIM

Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM), while being a crucial aspect of communication for the Deaf community in Malaysia, faces several challenges and misconceptions that hinder its wider acceptance and understanding.

Challenges:

Lack of Qualified Interpreters: There is a shortage of qualified BIM interpreters, which affects the Deaf community’s access to various services, including education, legal assistance, and healthcare.
Limited Public Knowledge: Many people are unaware of BIM, leading to communication barriers between the Deaf and hearing communities.
Inadequate Educational Resources: There is a need for more educational resources and materials in BIM to support the learning and development of Deaf individuals.

Misconceptions:

Simplicity of Sign Language: A common misconception is that sign language is a simple system of gestures, whereas BIM is a complex language with its own grammar and syntax.
Universal Sign Language: Some assume that there is a universal sign language, but BIM is distinct and specific to the Malaysian Deaf community, reflecting its culture and norms.

Need for Greater Public Awareness and Support

The need for greater public awareness and support for the Deaf community is paramount. Efforts to raise awareness can include:

Education Campaigns: Conducting campaigns to educate the public about BIM and the Deaf culture.
Inclusive Policies: Implementing policies that mandate the inclusion of BIM in public services.
Community Engagement: Encouraging the hearing community to learn BIM to foster better communication and understanding.

Support for the Deaf community can also be enhanced by:

Funding for Deaf Education: Providing financial support for educational programs that cater to the needs of Deaf students.
Accessibility in Public Spaces: Ensuring public spaces are equipped with facilities that accommodate the Deaf, such as visual alerts and BIM interpretation services.
Employment Opportunities: Creating job opportunities that are accessible to the Deaf and promoting workplace inclusivity.

Sign Language Poetry

The Artistry of Sign Language Poetry in BIM

Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM), the Malay Sign Language, is not only a functional medium of communication but also a rich, expressive art form. Sign language poetry within the BIM context is a testament to the creative potential and aesthetic beauty of this visual language.

Expressive Potential of BIM

Sign language poetry is a unique genre that combines the visual-spatial nature of sign languages with the rhythm, movement, and expression of poetry. In BIM, poets use their hands, facial expressions, and body movements to create vivid imagery and emotional resonance. This form of poetry transcends the spoken word, offering a multisensory experience that is both captivating and moving.

Cultural Reflection

BIM poetry often reflects the cultural nuances and heritage of Malaysia. Poets may incorporate traditional motifs, stories, and values, presenting them in a way that is accessible and engaging for both Deaf and hearing audiences. The fluidity and grace of BIM allow for a deep connection with the Malaysian Deaf culture and its shared experiences.

Celebrating BIM through Poetry

Events and virtual poetry showcase celebrate BIM and its poetic expressions, bringing together the Deaf community and wider audiences. These platforms provide an opportunity for Deaf poets to share their work, highlighting the beauty and versatility of BIM. They also serve as educational tools, raising awareness about the richness of sign language and the importance of Deaf culture.

Courses For Learning BIM

Is there any Malaysian sign language course? Yes, if you’re interested in learning BIM, whether you’re deaf or hearing, consider the following options:

1. BIM SignBank

BIM SignBank is a comprehensive sign language resource bank for Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (Malaysian Sign Language). It was developed by the Malaysian Federation of the Deaf in collaboration with Guidewire Gives Back.
The platform serves as a valuable resource for learning and teaching BIM, offering a wide range of signs that are used within the Deaf community in Malaysia¹.
It is designed to support the preservation and promotion of BIM, ensuring that the language remains vibrant and accessible for both current and future generations¹.

2. YMCA KL Sign Language Courses

The YMCA KL offers structured courses in BIM, ranging from beginner to advanced levels.
These courses cover everything from basic gestures and finger spelling to more complex dialogue and sentence structure. They are available both online and in physical classes, making them accessible to a broader audience².

3. Malaysian Federation of the Deaf

The Malaysian Federation of the Deaf (MFD) is a national-level organization that represents the interests and rights of the Deaf community in Malaysia. Established on December 8, 1997, it encompasses 14 state and national-level member associations ¹.
The MFD is self-administered by individuals from the Deaf community and has been mandated to advocate for the Deaf in Malaysia, ensuring they can live harmoniously with the rest of the population ¹.
The MFD provides various services, including sign language classes, support for Deaf education, and sign language interpreter services. It also works towards raising awareness about the Deaf community’s needs and promoting the use of Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) to facilitate communication and integration ².

4. The Sarawak Society for the Deaf

The Sarawak Society for the Deaf (SSD) is a charitable organization based in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia. It was initiated by the Lions Club of Kuching Host in the 1980s and has been dedicated to working with and for the Deaf community¹. The SSD provides various services, including:
- Sign Language Classes: Offering classes to the public to promote the learning of sign language.
- Tailoring: Providing vocational training in tailoring for the Deaf to help them acquire skills for employment.
- Car Wash: Operating a car wash service as a means of employment for the Deaf community members.

The organization aims to support the Deaf community in Kuching and the wider region of Sarawak by enhancing their quality of life and ensuring their integration into society ².

5. RC Deaf Missions Videos Online

RC Deaf Missions Malaysia is an organization co-founded by Agnes and Mario Peter in 2006 with a passion for the Deaf community. It aims to provide employment opportunities for the Deaf to enhance their livelihood and to be a service industry with Deaf impact.
The organization raises awareness about the Deaf community, its culture, and language – Malaysian Sign Language (BIM). They offer various services and products, and they are involved in activities that promote the use of BIM ¹.

Open Learning Platforms

OpenLearning platforms offer courses in BIM or Malay sign language, which are designed to help learners master the basics of the language and understand Deaf culture. These courses are the first of their kind in Malaysia and are available online⁴ ⁵.

Additional Resources

There are also other resources such as the EDDY app on Android, and various videos online that can supplement your learning experience ³.

These courses and resources provide a solid foundation for anyone looking to learn BIM, whether for personal growth, professional development, or to better communicate with the Deaf community in Malaysia.

Why Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) Matters

Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) or Malay sign language, is more than just a communication tool for the Deaf community; it is a vital aspect of their cultural and social identity. Here are some reasons why BIM is so important:

1. Cultural and Political Identity

BIM is intrinsic to the cultural and political identity of Malaysians who are deaf or hard-of-hearing. It is a reflection of their heritage and provides a sense of belonging and pride within the Deaf community.

2. Communication and Education

As the main language used by the Deaf community in Malaysia, BIM enables clear communication, understanding, and conveyance of messages. It is essential for education, allowing Deaf individuals to learn and engage with the world around them.

3. Everyday Life Activities

BIM is crucial for everyday life activities, from social interactions to accessing services. It allows the Deaf community to participate fully in society and lead independent lives.

4. Recognition and Respect

BIM has been recognized as the official language of the Deaf in Malaysia through the Persons with Disabilities Act 2008. This recognition underscores the importance of respecting and protecting BIM as an integral part of Malaysia’s linguistic diversity.

Conclusion

As we embrace the vibrant tapestry of cultures that make up our society, it is essential to recognize the importance of inclusivity and communication. Learning Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) or Malay sign language is more than just acquiring a new language; it’s about opening doors to understanding and connecting with the Deaf community.

Take the first step towards inclusivity by learning BIM. Support the Deaf community by engaging with their culture, attending events, and advocating for their rights. Every gesture, every sign learned, is a bridge built towards a more inclusive and cohesive society.

Let’s all contribute to a world where everyone has a voice, and every language is celebrated. Start learning BIM today and be part of the change you wish to see in our multicultural society.

FAQ

What is the sign language app in Malaysia?

In Malaysia, the My Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (MyBIM) app is a comprehensive sign language application launched by the Malaysian Federation of the Deaf (MFD) in partnership with Yayasan Sime Darby. It’s designed to teach sign language using multiple interactive methods and has a vast vocabulary across 36 categories, including about 500 words ranging from colors and greetings to pronouns and verbs in both Bahasa Malaysia and English.

Another notable app is EDDY (Edugame & Dictionary for Deaf), which was co-developed by Digi Telecommunications and BAXS Technology. EDDY is a mobile application that aims to help the deaf community, teachers, family, and society learn Malaysian Sign Language (BIM). It features a 3D animated figure named EDDY and includes an animated dictionary covering 1,000 words and an educational game for learning sign language.

These apps are part of efforts to make sign language more accessible and to support the inclusion of the deaf community in Malaysia. They offer interactive learning methods through videos and flashcards, available in both Bahasa Malaysia and English, making it easier for everyone to learn and communicate using BIM.

Is BIM and ASL the same?

No, Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia (BIM) and American Sign Language (ASL) are not the same. While BIM may have been influenced by ASL during its development, they are distinct languages with their own unique signs, grammar, and syntax.

BIM is the sign language developed within the deaf community in Malaysia, incorporating local culture, idioms, and norms. It evolved naturally among the deaf community, particularly in schools for the deaf, and has been influenced by the local spoken language, Bahasa Malaysia.

On the other hand, ASL is a natural language that has developed over time within the Deaf communities in the United States and parts of Canada. It has its own rules for grammar, punctuation, and sentence order, which are different from the spoken English language.

Both sign languages reflect their respective cultures and communities, making them unique and tailored to the needs of their users. Teaching one does not mean you will automatically understand the other, as is the case with any two distinct languages.

What is the most known sign language?

The most widely known and used sign language is American Sign Language (ASL). It is the primary language of the Deaf community in the United States and parts of Canada, and it is also recognized as a foreign language in many American schools and universities. ASL has a significant number of signers across the U.S., Canada, Southeast Asia, West Africa, and South America, making it one of the most commonly-used sign languages in the world.

Is there any Malaysian sign language book?

Yes, there are several resources available for those interested in learning Malaysian Sign Language (BIM). Here are a couple of notable books:

“Let’s Sign”: This book comprises 300 fundamental sign-words of BIM and also briefly describes Deaf culture for basic communication. It introduces Deaf norms and traditions, the importance of facial expressions and gestures in BIM, and includes perspectives from the Deaf community.
“Sign-i-ficance”: This book contains sign-words in medical, legal, educational, and environmental fields to boost the reader’s BIM vocabulary. It is a guide to enhancing communication in BIM, including simple sentence construction exercises, quizzes, and covers the components of BIM. The book also addresses topics on Deafhood, identity crisis, language dilemma, Deaf advocacy, and empowerment.