A war of words has erupted over this year's National Day slogan, which critics say translates to 'culture makes you tired'.
But the Government insists budaya penentu kecapaian, the three Malay words providing the theme for the anniversary of independence celebrations on August 31, mean 'culture determines [or, is the path to] achievement'.
The controversy centres on the word kecapaian, which some Malay language experts said could be confused with an Indonesian word meaning tired, lethargic or exhausted. Indonesian has its roots in Malay.
The debate comes at a time of great sensitivity over language in Malaysia where purists want more emphasis on Malay, or Bahasa Melayu, which is the official national tongue, while the Government is emphasising the importance of English in enhancing the technical skills of the workforce.
Defending the National Day slogan, Culture Minister Sabbaruddin Chik admitted the word kecapaian was not in the official Malay dictionary, but said it had been 'created' for the occasion.
However a newspaper columnist said he recalled an old love song, Niat hati tak kecapaian (The desire of my heart is unattainable).