Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) is becoming more accessible, thanks to new efforts aimed at raising awareness. A free e-book has recently been launched, allowing anyone to learn basic SgSL. This is just one of many initiatives helping to bring this into the spotlight, making it more visible and understood.
What Makes Singapore Sign Language Special?
Singapore Sign Language (SgSL) is unique to Singapore’s deaf community. It has developed naturally over several decades, starting in the 1950s. SgSL reflects the local culture and everyday experiences of deaf Singaporeans. What makes it truly special is that it includes Singapore-specific phrases and terms, like “So shiok!” and names of familiar places like “City Hall MRT.” This gives it a local flavour that’s different from other sign languages such as American Sign Language (ASL) or British Sign Language (BSL).
Image from NTU’s Singapore Sign Language
SgSL is more than just a means of communication; it is a representation of the cultural identity of Singapore’s deaf community.
New Efforts to Promote SgSL
In a push to help more people learn this, an e-book was launched in September by the Singapore Association for the Deaf (SADeaf) and Nanyang Technological University (NTU). This e-book is a simple introduction to SgSL. It includes common words and phrases used in everyday conversations, many of which are uniquely Singaporean. Animated GIFs show users how to sign each word, making it easy for beginners to follow along.
NTU has also been offering SgSL classes since 2015, and hundreds of students enrol every year to learn. These efforts are helping to grow the understanding of SgSL across both the deaf and hearing communities in Singapore.
Why Recognition of SgSL Matters
There has been a strong call from the deaf community for Singapore Sign Language to be officially recognised. Many believe that giving it this status would strengthen the language’s role in society and encourage more people to learn it. Official recognition would also create a sense of pride within the deaf community, allowing deaf individuals to express themselves in a language that reflects their culture.
Some neighbouring countries, like Malaysia and the Philippines, have already recognised their national sign languages. This has helped raise the visibility and importance of their languages, and Singapore could follow suit.
The Future of Singapore Sign Language
Even without official recognition, the use of Singapore Sign Language is growing. Deaf Singaporeans have been using SgSL for generations, and they will continue to do so. The ongoing efforts to teach SgSL, whether through e-books, classes, or public resources, mean that more people will come to understand and appreciate this vital part of Singapore’s culture.
By learning Singapore Sign Language, we can all help bridge the communication gap between the deaf and hearing communities. In doing so, we create a more inclusive society where everyone’s voice, whether spoken or signed, is valued.
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