KUALA LUMPUR: Any increase in enrolment of non-Chinese pupils in Chinese vernacular schools (SJKC) will not affect the quality of teaching and learning, says Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.
She said having pupils from different races in vernacular schools helps strengthen national unity, in line with the aims of the national education system.
Fadhlina said Mandarin remains the medium of instruction in Chinese vernacular schools, while Bahasa Melayu and English are still taught as compulsory subjects under the national curriculum.
"Pupils who are not native Chinese speakers are aided through transition programmes, language intervention and differentiated teaching methods carried out by trained teachers," she said in a written reply in the Dewan Rakyat on Friday (Feb 6).
She was responding to Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan (PN-Permatang Pauh), who asked if the lower number of Chinese pupils in Chinese vernacular schools, which has led to more non-Chinese enrolment, could harm teaching and learning due to language differences.
Fadhlina said Education Ministry data showed that some Chinese vernacular schools, especially in rural areas, have seen a drop in enrolment because of demographic changes and population movement.
However, she said enrolment in Chinese vernacular schools remains stable and interest from parents of various races is growing.
She said the ministry would continue to uphold inclusivity and respect parents' choice within the National Education Policy.
"The ministry will continue to place priority on learning quality, mastery of the national language, national unity and pupils' well-being, regardless of school type or race," she added.
