Unity Minister: Vernacular schools are not a divisive factor

PETALING JAYA: Vernacular schools are not a divisive factor but rather a platform for unity, says National Unity Minister Datuk Seri Aaron Ago Dagang, who points to enrolment data indicating a steady increase in non-Chinese students attending Chinese vernacular schools and non-Indian students in Tamil vernacular schools between 2018 and 2023.

“This demonstrates that unity among the people can be cultivated anywhere if all parties are sincere,” said Aaron, before adding that the ministry conducted a study on vernacular schools, revealing that they provide a platform for students from diverse backgrounds to interact and understand each other.

“Last year, the ministry initiated the social deficit discourse, featuring experts in the field.

“The findings indicated that vernacular schools should no longer be perceived as sources of division among ethnicities but should function as platforms for managing social harmony, similar to the role of national schools,” he added.

Aaron reiterated his support for Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek’s position on vernacular schools, emphasising that they will remain under the purview of her ministry.

“I fully support the education minister’s stance that the Education Ministry will continue to uphold the vernacular education system, in line with Section 28 (establishment of National and National-Type Schools) of the Education Act 1996,” he said.

The minister called for an end to the polemic surrounding vernacular schools, emphasising that these longstanding educational institutions play an important role in uniting communities.

Fadhlina Sidek reaffirmed the commitment of the Education Ministry to acknowledging and supporting vernacular schools.

She was responding to Umno Youth chief Dr Muhamad Akmal Saleh’s call for a reassessment of the vernacular education system amid growing concerns over the lack of cohesion among the population.