KUALA LUMPUR: A PAS MP has urged the Education Ministry to incorporate more Jawi script in the Islamic Education syllabus at Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) level as part of efforts to promote and strengthen the use of Jawi.
Datuk Dr Ahmad Marzuk Shaary (PN-Pengkalan Chepa) said that although the Education Ministry has expressed its commitment to strengthen Jawi, the script has been removed from the SPM Islamic Education syllabus, disrupting its continuity in practical application.
"I propose that, to promote Jawi, activities such as 'Semarak Jawi' and similar initiatives should continue.
"We need to revert back questions and markings in Jawi in relevant SPM subjects, teachers should be trained and collaboration with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka (DBP) strengthened.
"Refresher courses should also be conducted and the Jawi ecosystem revitalised through 'Jawi day' celebrations, Jawi text materials in calligraphy clubs and related activities," he said while debating the Supply Bill 2026 at the committee stage for the Education Ministry on Wednesday (Nov 12).
He added that a more inclusive approach emphasises that Jawi is not just a cultural heritage or national identity issue but at times becomes a political issue that can be manipulated.
