Wa hiao kong Hokkien

Apologies for the blatant murder of the Hokkien language, in my title above but, er, it’s the best I can do. Never mind that I am of Hokkien descent, I can barely say a word, let alone four.

Well, the same might not be the case for cops in Penang. Today’s The Star reports that police officers in Penang has been offered the opportunity to take Hokkien dialect courses to improve their communication skills. This is a fantastic idea, methinks, not only because personal development is so crucial for everyone but also because it will allow them to do their jobs better - after all, Hokkien is used widely in the state.

Apparently, 35 officers from various races have already undergone the training in August, and there is to be another course in November.

Bravo!

2.41pm Malaysian time (+8 GMT)