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Language Award 2024 Winner | Hibiscus Academy Highlights

vkhong

🌟 A Proud Moment for Hibiscus Academy 🌟


Lew Voon Khong receiving the PCORE Language Award 2024.
Lew Voon Khong receiving the PCORE Language Award 2024.

At Hibiscus Academy, we take immense pride in the achievements of our Principal and Academic Director, Lew Voon Khong, who has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to language research. He has been featured in the Universiti Malaya Faculty of Languages and Linguistics January 2025 Newsletter, under the section “In the Spotlight: FLL's Rising Star.”


This recognition celebrates his receipt of the prestigious 2024 Language Award from the Association of Peace, Conscience, and Reason (PCORE) for his dissertation, titled:“The Use of and Attitude Towards Cantonese Among Chinese Malaysians in Kuala Lumpur.”


Lew’s work highlights the unique linguistic and cultural significance of Cantonese within the Malaysian Chinese community, shedding light on how the language is used and valued in everyday life. His research journey was shaped by his commitment to preserving linguistic heritage and the generous contributions of his research participants, who provided invaluable insights into the history and nuances of Malaysian Cantonese.


This milestone reflects not only Lew’s dedication to his field but also his broader mission to safeguard and celebrate heritage languages such as Cantonese and Hakka. His passion inspires us to continue fostering a deep appreciation for cultural diversity and language learning at Hibiscus Academy.


We invite you to learn more about his journey and future plans by reading the full feature here:👉 Celebrating Excellence: Winner of the 2024 Language Award https://fll.um.edu.my//news/celebrating-excellence-winner-of-the-2024-language-award


Please join us in congratulating Lew Voon Khong on this incredible achievement. His work truly embodies the spirit of excellence and cultural preservation that Hibiscus Academy stands for! 🎉


Interested in language learning and cultural preservation? Explore our programs at Hibiscus Academy.


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Full feature:


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.

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