English as the Official Working Language in ASEAN

English is becoming increasingly important as a global lingua franca, facilitating

communication and cooperation between different countries. Reported by British Council
(2013, p. 5), some 1.75 billion people or a quarter of the world’s population speak English at
a useful level. Regarding of it, English is known as the dominant international language. In
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a region marked by linguistic
diversity, using English as the official working language has many considerations.
First and foremost, English serves as the neutral platform, without any historical or
political baggage. Proponents of making English the official language in ASEAN argue that it
can significantly improve communication and collaboration. Roby Marlina and Zhichang Xu
(2018) highlight that using English as a lingua franca refers to an intercultural communicative
setting. This means English can ease the barriers among the users. This argument is
particularly relevant given the linguistic diversity within ASEAN, where multiple languages
are spoken.
Furthermore, the widespread use of English in the global business community will
promote economic integration. Dr. Sanchita Basu Das of the ASEAN Research Center
emphasized that “a common language helps streamline trade and investment processes,
attract foreign investors and promote intra-ASEAN trade”. The International Monetary Fund
(2023) stated that “The economies in ASEAN are expected to see growth of 4.2 percent in
2023 and 4.6 percent in 2024, a downward revision of 0.4 percentage points in 2023 and 0.3
percentage points in 2024, relative to our April World Economic Outlook”. The data can
attract foreign investors, stimulate economic growth, and increase job opportunities for the
region’s citizens, as mentioned by Dr. Somkiat Tangkitvanich, President of the Thailand
Development Research Institute. Hence, this is particularly crucial in the context of a
globalized economy.
Besides, being fluent in English equips ASEAN citizens with valuable skills and
expands their employment prospects. In today's connected and globalized world, English
proficiency is becoming increasingly important for career growth and career success
(Ahamed, 2023).
On the other hand, critics contend that making English the official working language
might lead to the erosion of linguistic diversity and cultural heritage in the region. Dr. Virak
Prum, President of Future Forum, cautions that "promoting English may result in the neglect
of local languages and cultures, potentially causing resentment and social divisions among
ASEAN nations."

Title: English as the Official Working Language in ASEAN

Introduction: The question of whether English should be designated as the official working
language in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is a subject of intense
debate. Advocates argue that adopting English would enhance regional cooperation, while
opponents contend that it threatens linguistic diversity and cultural identity within ASEAN.
This essay will present both sides of the argument, drawing upon expert opinions and
evidence to offer a balanced perspective.
Body Paragraph (Pro-Argument): Proponents of making English the official language in
ASEAN argue that it can significantly improve communication and collaboration. Dr. Philip
Altbach, an international education expert, highlights that "using English as a lingua franca
can ease communication barriers and enhance diplomatic relations among the member
countries." This argument is particularly relevant given the linguistic diversity within
ASEAN, where multiple languages are spoken.
Body Paragraph (Counter-Argument): On the other hand, critics contend that making English
the official working language might lead to the erosion of linguistic diversity and cultural
heritage in the region. Dr. Virak Prum, President of Future Forum, cautions that "promoting
English may result in the neglect of local languages and cultures, potentially causing
resentment and social divisions among ASEAN nations."
Body Paragraph (Pro-Argument): Advocates also stress the economic advantages of adopting
English as the official language. Dr. Somkiat Tangkitvanich, President of the Thailand
Development Research Institute, points out that "English proficiency can attract foreign
investors, stimulate economic growth, and increase job opportunities for the region's
citizens." This is particularly crucial in the context of a globalized economy.
Body Paragraph (Counter-Argument): Opponents argue that imposing English as the official
language may not be equitable for all ASEAN member states. Dr. Sandra Uwiringiyimana, a
linguist, contends that "some nations might face challenges in adapting to English, potentially
creating disparities in communication abilities and opportunities among member countries."
Conclusion: In conclusion, the question of whether English should be the official working
language in ASEAN is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. While English
could facilitate communication and boost economic integration, it may also threaten linguistic
diversity and exacerbate disparities among member nations. A nuanced approach that
balances the advantages and disadvantages is essential. The final decision should prioritize
the region's unity, inclusivity, and cultural heritage, informed by expert opinions and
thorough analysis.
[References]:
1. Philip G. Altbach, "English as a Global Language in International Higher Education:
A Review of Trends and Issues." Accessed at https://eric.ed.gov/?id=EJ963654.
2. Virak Prum, "ASEAN Integration, National Identity, and Multilingualism: The Case
of Cambodia." Accessed at
https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0021909616672066.
3. Somkiat Tangkitvanich, "ASEAN Integration and Development: The Role of English
Language Education." Accessed at https://www.tdri.or.th/ewt_dl_link.php?
filename=published_ewt_article/tdriquarterly/2555/r001.pdf.
4. Sandra Uwiringiyimana, "Language Ideologies and English in ASEAN: A Critical
Perspective." Accessed at https://www.mdpi.com/2073-431X/9/2/53.
Title: English as the Official Working Language in ASEAN

English has gained prominence as a global lingua franca, facilitating communication

and collaboration among diverse nations. In the Association of Southeast Asian
Nations (ASEAN), a region marked by linguistic diversity, adopting English as the
official working language holds numerous benefits.

First and foremost, English serves as a neutral platform, unburdened by historical or

political baggage. As Dr. Jose Ramos-Horta, a Nobel laureate, emphasizes, "ASEAN
nations should capitalize on English's impartiality to foster cooperation and
diplomatic relations."

Furthermore, English's widespread use in the global business community promotes

economic integration. Dr. Sanchita Basu Das of the ASEAN Studies Centre
underscores that "a common language streamlines trade and investment processes,
attracting foreign investors and boosting intra-ASEAN trade."

English proficiency equips ASEAN citizens with valuable skills and broadens their
employment prospects. Professor Tham Siew Yean, a regional expert, notes,
"Proficiency in English enhances job mobility and access to a wider pool of job
opportunities, not just within ASEAN but worldwide."

In conclusion, designating English as the official working language in ASEAN would

foster diplomatic relations, facilitate economic integration, and empower the region's
citizens. Embracing this linguistic bridge is a pragmatic step toward a more united
and prosperous ASEAN.