Singlish

What I don't get is why the gahmen won't consider Singlish as a language onto itself.

You have British and American english, each with it's different spellings, use of words and phrases. You even have Australian english. So why not view Singlish as a language itself?

This means that while I can speak and use Singlish in informal situations, such as with friends, I will use proper English for serious stuff.

If the gahmen can actually seperate the 2, then there wouldn't be such a big hoo-hah and a need to stop people from speaking Singlish. In itself, I think Singlish is very much a part of our national identity and culture.

How do you identify a Singaporean overseas? Not neccessaryily by his clothes or mannerism, but once he opens his mouth to let out a "lah", you will immediately be able to identify with him.

With the gahmen so desperate to build up a Singaporean culture, and a "Uniquely Singaporean" image, there really should be a campaign to build up Singlish.

I am however not advocating Singlish instead of English. English has it's place and uses, not least in communicating with other people who do not know Singlish. But why must Singlish be viewed as a substitue, a replacement for English? Can't the 2 coexist side by side?