Kota Melaka MP, Khoo Poay Tiong (DAP), has suggested that the Education Minister revise primary school history textbooks to include the history of all the races in Malaysia. He said that this would nurture unity among the younger generation.
This comes after Education Minister, Fadhlina Sidek, opened the floor to “bold and radical” suggestions on the basics of education, for the upcoming 13th Malaysia Plan (RMK-13) set to be implemented from 2026 to 2030, during yesterday’s (February 24, Thursday) Dewan Rakyat session.
“I would like to bring your attention to the content of primary school history textbooks, where in primary schools, I think is the place to nurture the spirit of unity,”
“So, I hope that (primary school) history textbooks, will include the history of all races,” he said.
Khoo suggests there is info missing from history textbooks
He further explained that his suggestion comes upon discovering a piece of information not included in primary school history textbooks.
“Last year, we celebrated the 50th anniversary of China-Malaysia diplomatic relations. Actually, this relationship started when Laksamana Cheng Ho came to Melaka. But, when I checked the primary school history textbooks, it didn’t touch on this matter. Perhaps we can take this into account,” he added.
Fadhlina Sidek acknowledged Khoo Poay Tiong’s suggestion and responded by informing him that there is a special committee, consisting of historians, history experts and history teachers, who ultimately decide what aspects of history are taught to students according to their schooling level.
You can watch Khoo’s suggestion during the Dewan Rakyat session here (23:00)Ā
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