KUALA LUMPUR: There is no room for compromise when it comes to empowering students in Bahasa Malaysia (BM) and the English language, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
Fadhlina said meeting future demands requires proficiency in both BM and English, with the latter serving as a reinforcement in specific sectors and as a second language for children to navigate the country's future direction.
“It's crucial now to look at the Upholding the Malay Language and Strengthening the English Language (MBMMBI) agenda to prevent mutual marginalisation, focusing on immediate needs to fill up vacancies especially in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET), and digital.
“Therefore, strengthening the English language is vital in education,” she said during her speech at the ELS English Language Ambassador Award essay writing competition 2023 ceremony here on Thursday (May 9).
The ceremony honoured the top 10 winners for excelling in the competition that is held annually with the support of the Education Ministry.
In 2022, ELS introduced the competition as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts to contribute to the government's drive for enhanced English language proficiency among secondary school students.
The annual CSR initiative is tailored to assist Form Four and Five students refine both their academic and creative writing abilities, aiding them in readiness for the SPM English written examination.
Meanwhile, Fadhlina said initiatives such as the ELS English Language Ambassador Award play an important complementary role by igniting a genuine passion for the English language.
“I am truly heartened and inspired to see that more private sector organisations like ELS are stepping forward to partner with us in these vital efforts, recognising the immense potential of our young people and the importance of nurturing their linguistic abilities,” she said.
