Malaysian Sign Language

A language of Malaysia

ISO 639: xml
Alternate Names: BIM, Bahasa Isyarat Malaysia
Population: 58,700 (2013 census). Approximately 0.2% of total population.
Location:: Scattered.
Language Status: 6a (Vigorous).
Classification: Sign language, Deaf community sign language
Dialects: Variations found in every state, but are mutually intelligible with the possible exception of some places in Terengganu state (2015 S. Lim).
Language Use: BIM is considered a natural sign language and widely used by the Deaf communities. Since 1978, the Ministry of Education has developed KTBM (Kod Tangan Bahasa Malaysia, or Manual Coded Bahasa Malaysia) to be used in public schools. Deaf must learn KTBM, and BIM is not allowed to be used in schools. Deaf children from Deaf families, and those from hearing families who enter early intervention programs, know and use BIM at an early age. Some hearing parents send their deaf children straight to public schools, and these children generally learn KTBM in schools. However, many who have completed schooling and joined the Deaf social groups quickly adopted BIM. Used by all. Positive attitudes. Many also use Standard Malay [zsm], in written form. Some also use English [eng], in written form. Used as L2 by Penang Sign Language [psg], Selangor Sign Language [kgi].
Language Development: Literacy rate in L2: 70%–80% in Standard Malay [zsm], 30%–40% in English [eng]. Dictionary.

Location: Scattered.