Three scripts, one language
The Rohingya language is written in three different scripts. Understanding which script to use — and why — requires knowing a little history and context.
1. Hanifi Rohingya Script
The Hanifi script was created in the 1980s by Mohammed Hanif and a team of Rohingya scholars. It was designed specifically for the Rohingya language and encodes sounds that Arabic and Latin scripts struggle to represent accurately.
Key facts:
- Written right to left
- Has 28 consonants and a dedicated vowel system
- Added to Unicode in 2018 (Unicode block U+10D00–U+10D3F)
- Considered the most linguistically accurate script for Rohingya
- Used in formal publications and community materials
Learn more: Hanifi Rohingya script: complete beginner guide
2. Arabic/Fonna Script
The Arabic-based Fonna script has been used for centuries in Rohingya religious education. It is derived from the Arabic alphabet with additional diacritics to represent Rohingya sounds.
Key facts:
- Written right to left
- Based on the Arabic alphabet
- Widely used in madrasas and religious contexts
- Accessible to Rohingya speakers with Arabic literacy
- Older tradition, predating the Hanifi script
Learn more: Rohingya Arabic/Fonna writing system
3. Rohingyalish (Latin Script)
Rohingyalish is a Latin-based writing system developed for digital communication. It was designed to be typed easily on standard QWERTY keyboards and smartphones.
Key facts:
- Written left to right
- Uses standard Latin letters plus some digraphs
- Widely used on social media and messaging apps
- Easy to type on phones and computers without special keyboards
- Less suited to formal or literary text
Learn more: Rohingyalish Latin writing system
Which script should I use?
| Context | Recommended Script |
|---|---|
| Formal documents, official use | Hanifi |
| Religious texts and education | Arabic/Fonna |
| SMS, WhatsApp, social media | Rohingyalish |
| NGO materials for refugees | Hanifi or Rohingyalish |
| Linguistic research | Hanifi |
Tools for working with Rohingya scripts
- English–Rohingya Dictionary — search 6,500+ words instantly
- Rohingya Keyboard — type Rohingya online
- Fonts — download Rohingya fonts for all scripts
Related: How to type Rohingya on iPhone | How to type Rohingya on Android