SUNGAI SIPUT: The government agrees to broaden its focus on the teaching of Tamil and Mandarin at teacher training institutions, alongside the national language, says Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim.
The Prime Minister stated that this initiative ensures teachers are trained in these languages to serve in schools requiring such language skills.
This is particularly significant for the teaching of Tamil and Mandarin in national primary and secondary schools.
"The goal is to ensure more teachers are adequately trained to meet the demand in schools where students wish to master their mother tongues without conflicting with the national language policy," he said during his speech at the opening of the new SJKT Heawood on Oct 6.
Anwar noted that this initiative reflects the government’s commitment to preserving linguistic diversity while maintaining the national language as a priority.
He emphasised that while national schools are encouraged, Chinese and Tamil schools are also integral to the education system.
"There’s nothing contentious about vernacular schools. Every community, district, and state visit I make brings new demands. I have no issue with requests as long as they're discussed properly," he stated.
He highlighted the importance of moderation to maintain national harmony amid community differences.
"If associations like the Indian or Hindu associations present their views properly, not swayed by extreme sentiments, we can maintain peace," he said.
Anwar cautioned teachers in vernacular schools not to underestimate the importance of mastering Bahasa Malaysia.
"In Malaysia, we want everyone to communicate well. Before independence, we agreed to use the national language while also improving proficiency in Tamil and Chinese," he added.
