“Using English Medium in Schools Could Threaten Malaysian Culture,” says Minister

As Malaysians, many of us often use English and Malay as a common language among people of different ethnic backgrounds. Some officials however, seem to prefer one language over the other.

Earlier this week, a proposal was made to run a pilot project in selected primary and secondary schools that have potential to make the switch from Malay to English when teaching and communicating among students. 

Source: the star

The minister went on to say that Sabah should revert to using English as the main language in schools in an effort to encourage young students to become more fluent in this widely used international language.

Sounds reasonable enough! 

However, there were polarising reactions from other ministers. Some of them agreed with the switch while others were more wary of it.

Tan Sri Dr. Rais Yatim, Advisor To The Government On Social & Cultural Affairs, apparently tweeted a statement on the usage of English as a medium in schools.

He disagreed with plans to implement the English language in schools, saying it would be a threat to Malaysian culture. 

Wah, really? Sounds a little exaggerated to us, lah…

Recently, Dr. Rais Yatim stated that the use of Bahasa Malaysia should remain intact as our official medium of communication across schools, workplaces, and other situations. He said this at the 2017 Cultural Congress, according to Utusan Online.

According to Dr. Rais Yatim, using Bahasa Malaysia can keep the country more united regardless of race and religion.

What do you think of the ministers’ opinions?

Also read: Malaysia has World’s Best Strategic Economic Planning, Says Minister