Malay · Family & People
kanak-kanak
Children
Beginnernoun
Definition
Young people in general.
Example
Kanak-kanak bermain di taman.
Children are playing in the park.
Etymology
'Kanak-kanak' literally means 'children' in Malay, with 'kanak' derived from older Malay terms referring to young individuals. The phrase underscores the importance of youth in society.
How & Where It’s Used
'Kanak-kanak' is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly in discussions about education, health, and welfare of children in Malaysia.