By Aida Aziz
Photo: Perak Tastic reader
IPOH: The spelling errors of the names of two icons and national figures on road signs in the city of Ipoh should be taken seriously by the authorities.
Both the state government and the local authorities (PBT) should address this issue seriously considering its historical significance.
The public at large is questioning the oversight in the spelling of Jalan Tun Sambanthan and Dato’ Onn Jaafar’s names.
According to a resident of Ipoh known as Kai Yong, one road is spelled correctly, while the other is spelled as Sambathan.
Similarly, Datuk Onn should be spelled as Dato’.
“There are spelling errors in the names of these two main roads located in downtown Ipoh.
“This matter needs the immediate attention of the Ipoh City Council (MBI) to investigate and correct the spelling.
“It is imperative that the relevant authorities take this seriously because these two figures have contributed greatly to the nation and should be remembered by the younger generation,” he said.
Meanwhile, President of the Perak Heritage Association, Tajuddin Mohd Tahir, stated that the naming process of these roads is conducted by a committee under MBI.
“The committee will make the necessary changes and submit them to the state government for approval.
“In our view, corrections should be made as there are factual inaccuracies and it involves national figures.
“It involves the dissemination of knowledge and instilling patriotic spirit; therefore, historical facts should be corrected,” he said.
He further emphasized that PBT in Perak should also be more vigilant and meticulous in such matters, considering they involve the image of these prominent figures.
Meanwhile, when contacted, MBI stated that they will review the matter thoroughly before issuing any feedback.
Dato’ Onn and Tun Sambanthan are both important statesmen in the nation-building of independent Malaysia.
Dato’ Onn himself was a pioneer of the Malay nationalism movement through the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), while Tun Sambanthan, a native of Perak, spearheaded the Indian community’s political organization in Malaysia, namely the Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC).
Both were not only involved in the independence movement of the country but also contributed ideas to the formation of Malaysia on September 16, 1963.
