Berhormat

Berhormat is a Malay honorific meaning “honourable.” In formal usage, it appears as part of the longer title Yang Berhormat, which is commonly translated as “The Honourable.” The form is used before the names or titles of certain public officials, most notably elected representatives such as Members of Parliament and state assemblymen, as well as other high-ranking government figures. In everyday writing and speech, the title is often rendered in its abbreviated form, YB, placed before the person’s name.

Etymology and form

Berhormat derives from the Malay adjective berhormat, meaning “worthy of respect.” The prefix Yang functions here as a definite title, so Yang Berhormat literally means “The One Who is Honourable.” The expression is gender-neutral and is used for both male and female officeholders.

Scope of use

The title is tied to public office and formal contexts. It is typically reserved for elected representatives and certain senior officials in government, and is not generally applied to private individuals or most civil servants in routine address. Usage appears in parliamentary proceedings, official communications, religious or ceremonial events, and media coverage of government business. The term conveys respect and status in the context of public service and governance.

Regional notes

In Malaysia, Yang Berhormat is widely used at federal and state levels. In Brunei and other Malay-speaking contexts, similar formal usages may occur in official settings. Outside these contexts, the term is not standard and other forms of address are used.

See also

The Honourable; Yang Berhormat; Malay honorifics.