This is the 757th most frequent Malay word.
awam
"Awam" in Malay means "public" or "general."
In this sentence, 'awam' is used as an adjective to describe the library as public, implying it is accessible to all.
Perpustakaan awam terletak di tengah bandar.
The public library is located in the city center.
Here, 'awam' serves as a noun to indicate a public space, denoting an area accessible and meant for the general populace.
Mereka mengadakan perbincangan terbuka di tempat awam.
They held an open discussion in a public place.
In this usage, 'awam' is a noun referring collectively to the general public or citizens.