KUALA LUMPUR: The relocation of Tamil vernacular schools to highly populated zones is needed to increase student enrolment, which is important in ensuring their long-term sustainability, says Centre for Vernacular School Excellence director Arun Dorasamy.
Currently, he said, 67% of Tamil schools are located in rural areas.
“Urban Indian communities lack access to Tamil schools, while rural Tamil schools struggle with low student enrolment due to a declining Indian population in those areas.
“We have continuously pushed for a relocation plan under the 12th Malaysia Plan (12MP) and the national budget.
“Without a structured relocation plan, Tamil schools will cease eventually,” he said during a press conference here Wednesday (March 5).
He said to ensure the successful relocation of Tamil schools, it is essential to gain the attention and support of the Education Ministry, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, leaders, and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
“Only through collective effort and commitment can we bring this matter to the forefront,” he said.
Citing statistics from the Education Ministry's portal, he said data showed a declining enrolment of students in Tamil schools across Malaysia.
Overall, he said as of Feb 2025, the numbers have dropped from 77,828 students last year to 72,080 in 2025, excluding pre-school.
He also said that the number of schools with 10 or fewer students has increased significantly over the past year.
“Currently, there are 37 schools with 10 or fewer students out of a total of 528 schools, compared to 26 schools in May 2024.
“For schools with 30 or fewer students, the number has risen from 132 schools in May 2024 to 155 schools this year, marking an increase of 17.4%
“Last year, concerns were raised about the schools with fewer than 10 students, which needed immediate attention, including potential relocation,” he said, adding that now, with 37 schools in this category, the urgency for intervention has grown.
