Teach khat as part of extra-curricular activities in schools, says MCA

IPOH: Learning khat or Jawi calligraphy should be part of the school's extra curricular activities, instead of being part of the Bahasa Melayu subject, says Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon.

The MCA deputy president said learning the calligraphy can be a burden for students.

"We do understand that khat is part of the Malay language culture. However, to have them in the syllabus, it would cost some problems in Chinese schools.

"For the Malay community, it would be easier since they are probably exposed to it, but it is a different scenario in the Chinese community.

"Since it is a form of art appreciation, why don't they teach khat as part of the extra curricular subjects for students?" he told The Star after attending the Perak MCA Youth general meeting at St John's hall here Sunday (Aug 4).

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohammad had on Saturday (Aug 3) announced that the introduction of khat would be part of the Bahasa Melayu subject for Year Four pupils from next year.

Dr Mah said the implementation could also burden parents and teachers.

"If students need to learn khat, parents would have to buy them special stationery and that could cost a lot for some families.

"Teachers also will need to make sure they have the expertise and are well-versed in the calligraphy.

"For Chinese school students, they have to master three languages which are already hard enough. Not many of them excel in it and now they have to learn khat?" he said.