Watch: English vs Maltese Debate Reignited As Local Influencers Break Down Language Differences
Do you speak in English or Maltese when surrounded by friends and in the comfort of your home?
The eternal debate over language in Malta was the latest topic tackled in a new video by two women who are very active on social media – and have to decide daily which language to use while communicating to the public.
The video, by One Chick and a Yorkie’s Danita and V Squared/Vibe FM’s Martina Zammit, saw the two women break down the different pronunciations of every day words, what each of them call every day items – as well as Martina’s repeated attempts at nailing certain Maltese words and phrases.
The playful video aimed to highlight the fact that though someone may speak in a different language than you in Malta, you are still part of the same group.
“We are all the same, we are all Maltese and all humans,” Danita said as she shared the video.
Online, people loved the idea behind the video, as well as the bubbly personalities of the two figures.
In Malta, both the English and Maltese language are official languages, and are often used interchangeably; for example, one can even request to have proceedings in a Maltese court continue in English following a simple request.
However, some people will still judge a person based on their language of choice – as well as the accent they may have.
With videos like the above showing the ignorance of such an approach, hopefully the island can take a more empathic approach to language over the coming years.
How do you react when someone speaks to you in the other language? Sound off in the comments below
READ NEXT: Contract Terminated After Ta’ Qali Car Park Operators Charge €5 A Pop To Drivers During Daytime
