Sinjoro Eng helps us identify brands familiar to Malaysians that are actually named in Esperanto.

Most people in the world can speak a word or two of Esperanto although they may not be aware of it. And this includes Malaysians.

You mean it's not named after a girl? | Source: Sinjoro Eng

You see, when Pepsi-Cola acquired the soft drink, Mirinda, Malaysians learnt to say a word of Esperanto. They may actually know two or three words in fact; it depends on what social level they are at or how well-informed they are about products in this country that are named in Esperanto.

For middle-aged Malaysians, especially those who are now in their 40s or 50s, Mirinda has been a part of their life.  For some of the fashion conscious youth among us, Baleno is a must-buy brand. Meanwhile, those who consider themselves to be in the upper-class, might have Movado watches on their wrists, if not kept in their safe-deposit boxes.

Of late, the new web experience revealed at Google I/O 2012, Movi,Kanti,Revo, is also Esperanto-based.

But doesn't it sound Swedish? No? | Source: http://bit.ly/NGR3Dw

Some of the products, unlike the above-mentioned ones, are not directly in Esperanto. But they are certainly derived from the language. For example, that well-known fermented milk drink, Yakult.

The frequent Malaysian traveller abroad may know even more words in Esperanto. If you are one, just take a look at the picture compiled by Esperantists to see how many Esperanto words you know.

Are you a closet Esperanto expert? | Source: Esperanto facebook groups

Here, I present a glossary of products currently named in Esperanto along with their translations:

1. Mirinda = Wonderful

2. Baleno = Whale

3. Movado = Movement

4. Movi = Move (infinitive)

5. Kanti = Sing (infinitive)

6. Revo = Daydream

If some of you remember other products named in Esperanto, you are most welcome to share them in the comments column provided. But for now, take a break and have a taste of Movi.Kanti.Revo., the sensory Chrome Experiment uniquely crafted by Cirque du Soleil. Enjoy!

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After watching the 8 minutes short film of the late Dr Claude Piron on the chanllenge of language, Sinjoro ENG has himself revolutionised. Watch it and see whether the short film will touch you too. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_YHALnLV9XU

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