Celebrating Excellence: Winner of the 2024 Language Award

Lew Voon Khong

[The Guardian Interview]: Sharing my journey as a teacher and researcher, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of promoting and studying Cantonese.

I am deeply honored to receive the 2024 Language Award from the Association of Peace, Conscience, and Reason (PCORE) for my dissertation titled “The Use of and Attitude Towards Cantonese Among Chinese Malaysians in Kuala Lumpur.” This recognition is a significant milestone in my academic journey and my commitment to linguistic and cultural preservation.

My interest in this topic began in May 2019 when I attended the School of Cantonese Studies in Hong Kong, where I discovered the depth and diversity of Cantonese as a language. It became evident that, despite Cantonese’s prominence in daily life in Malaysia and the media, research on its use in Malaysia is scarce. Given its connection to Kuala Lumpur, where I was born and raised, I felt compelled to explore this further.

While the journey was fulfilling, it was not without challenges. My original proposal on language identity was rejected, leading me to refocus on language use and attitudes under the guidance of my supervisors, AP Dr. Chau Meng Huat and Dr. Yeo Siang Lee. Collecting data during the pandemic was particularly difficult, but the interviews I conducted offered invaluable insights into the history and uniqueness of Malaysian Cantonese.

This research also brought unexpected opportunities, including media coverage and a documentary produced by Yellow Pictures for ASTRO’s National Day campaign, The Guardians, celebrating those who safeguard education, culture, and heritage.

Looking ahead, I plan to expand my research on Cantonese grammar, vocabulary, and sociolinguistics across Malaysia. I am equally passionate about contributing to the preservation of the Hakka language, my mother tongue, which faces challenges of decline. Inspired by Taiwan’s efforts to revitalize Hakka, I am committed to ensuring this rich linguistic heritage thrives for future generations.

[The Guardian – Participant 01B & 02]: Conducting an interview with a participant of Cantonese origin and a participant of Hokkien origin who incorporates the language deeply into her daily life.

[The Guardian – Chan She Shu Yuan]: Guiding students on a visit to Chan She Shu Yuan, established in 1896, to explore the rich history and intricate architecture of Cantonese heritage.

[China Press] : A cover-page feature showcasting my efforts in teaching and preserving Cantonese and Hakka languages.