PETALING JAYA: Following the appointment of Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the Education Minister, hopeful Malaysians have called out for the return of English as the medium used to teach Science and Mathematics in schools.
Facebook user Christopher Ng said that the two subjects must be taught in English, while acknowledging that Bahasa Malaysia must remain as the nation’s official language.
“Science and Mathematics must be taught in English and English only,” he said.
At the same time, Ng also said that the government must upgrade the existing English, Science and Mathematics syllabus for both primary and secondary school level.
He had also called out for the abolishment of examinations for Pendidikan Sivik (civic studies) and Pendidikan Moral (moral studies) in schools.
Facebook user Ariv Chelvam said that the level of English must be improved drastically in all public schools.
“The Form 5 English text book is hilarious!"
Ariv also proposed to have music lessons in public schools, saying that "music really helps with students’ minds".
He added that vernacular schools should be abolished, saying that this will ensure that racism is curbed at a young age.
“A one-school system will show the world what happens when you put bright minds together.”
Similar sentiments were expressed by Facebook user Zhi Xuan Lee, as she proposed that existing vernacular schools be transformed into national schools.
She said that Bahasa Malaysia and English should remain as mandatory subjects and added that a student should master an additional language like Mandarin or Tamil along with the first two compulsory languages.
Meanwhile, Teach For Malaysia (TFM) managing director Dzameer Dzulkifli said they look forward to supporting the Ministry of Education’s plans to incorporate 21st century innovation in classroom-learning and to recruit top talent into the education sector.
“At TFM, we believe that if we listen to and empower our students, we will solve real problems. We want to see a Malaysia where all children are empowered to be leaders of their own learning, their future and the future of this country," he said.
However, Dzameer lamented students lacked the critical thinking skills, creativity and confidence to make their voices heard in classrooms.
“In order to do this, our nation needs its most passionate, promising leaders to work hand in hand with local communities to empower our students.”
Earlier on Thursday (May 17), Dr Mahathir said he will take over the education portfolio because many people are uneducated, and that he needed to give his attention to it.
He said Malaysia’s new way of teaching is “outdated” and he hopes that more Malaysians will be more computer-savvy.
Dr Mahathir also said that he will introduce online software to teach students in schools.
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