From ‘agak-agak’ to ‘kaypoh’, our everyday lingo goes global

2026-03-25 - 04:21

These are just three terms familiar to Malaysians and Singaporeans that have been added to the Oxford English Dictionary. KUALA LUMPUR: If you’ve ever cooked by “agak-agak” instead of following a recipe, or warned a friend not to “play-play”, you might be speaking a form of English the world is only just catching up with. Ever been labelled “kaypoh”? Congratulations – that’s officially global, too. On March 24, the Oxford English Dictionary (OED) unveiled its latest update, this time spotlighting words and expressions rooted in Malaysian and Singaporean English. These terms that have long lived in everyday conversations are now formally recognised in one of the most authoritative records of the English language. Among the standout entries is “agak-agak”, which perfectly captures a distinctly local approach to cooking. Rather than strict measurements, it reflects a reliance on instinct, experience, and a good feel for flavours. It is the method behind many beloved dishes, from tangy “assam laksa” to colourful bowls of “ice kacang”, where precision often takes a back seat to intuition. Speaking of which, both these dishes made their way into the dictionary, too! Then there is “boleh”, which Malaysians would be more than familiar with. It signals ability, agreement or encouragement – and, of course, is popularised here by the rallying cry “Malaysia boleh”! For those who enjoy a bit of flair, “wayang” also makes the list. Originally referring to traditional theatrical performances, it has evolved into a playful way to describe someone putting on a show, or being overly dramatic or not entirely genuine. And of course, every community has its fair share of “kaypoh” personalities – those curious souls who cannot resist getting involved in other people’s business. Borrowed from Hokkien, the word has become a familiar and often affectionate label across Malaysia and Singapore. Our favourite dessert to beat the heat – ice kacang – has been formally added to the Oxford English Dictionary. (Andrea Edmonds @ FMT Lifestyle) The update also reflects aspects of modern Singaporean life, with “BTO” – short for Build to Order – included not just as a noun but as a verb. More than just a housing scheme, it has become a cultural marker, often seen as a milestone in relationships. Applying for a flat together signals commitment – proof that a couple is not just there to “play-play”. OED provides an example: “If you don’t talk about these big topics early on in the dating phase, then of course, you wouldn’t BTO so soon.” Other additions reflect everyday expressions and identities, including “jialat”, used to describe a troublesome or dire situation, and “Mat Salleh”, the popular term for Westerners. Even administrative language makes an appearance, with “degazette” joining the list. At the same time, several existing entries have been revised, showing how meanings and usage continue to evolve. Familiar terms such as “lah”, “sarong”, “towkay”, “Bahasa” and “Yang di-Pertuan Agong” have been updated, underscoring the depth and longevity of the region’s influence on English. Taken together, the update is more than just a list of new words; it is a snapshot of how language grows, shaped by culture, migration and daily life. It also reflects something Malaysians and Singaporeans have long known – that our way of speaking is dynamic, expressive, and uniquely our own; a version of English that the rest of the world is learning to understand.