A bill that seeks to strengthen the Palauan language had been passed on third reading on Thursday last week (May 10) at the Senate.
SB No. 7-79, SD1, which was authored by Sen. Santy Asanuma, is to recognize and formalize Palauan Orthography.
The bill explained that this is an effort to protect verbal and written Palauan language and grammar from further degradation due to the popularity of English and other languages among the younger Palauans.
It would set a standard orthography of rules foe the written Paluan language to be overseen by an Orthography Commission made up of five members representing the Society of Historians, the Council of Chiefs and presidential appointees.
The committee on health education and social welfare chaired by Senate Vice President Mlib Tmetuchl explained that by formally establishing the orthography of the Palauan language, the traditional values and understanding of the Palauan language would be maintained, preserved and strengthened.
The committee also said that the addition of new words would be incorporated into the language.
A Senate press release also added that the measure further aims to secure the future of the Palauan language in the Palauan and international community.
The bill is now in the House of Delegates for deliberation.