Kuala Lumpur: A senator has proposed that existing vernacular schools be maintained, but with the condition that mastery of the Malay language and history be prioritised, in line with the teaching and learning curriculum (PdP) of national schools. Senator Datuk Dr Azhar Ahmad argued that while Article 152 of the Federal Constitution allows for the existence of vernacular schools, in order to shape the true face of Malaysia, the national language standard and national history need to be standardised across all schools.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Azhar suggested maintaining vernacular schools with Malay as the primary language, stating that history and national governance should be at the core of the curriculum. He emphasized the need to prioritize national subjects over other languages in these schools to align them with the national co-curricular curriculum.

Azhar also stressed that if vernacular schools do not introduce the national co-curricular curriculum, as recommended by certain parties, it will hinder integration and create a generation of citizens who do not fully understand the spirit of nationalism. Referring to some politicians who have proposed the abolition of vernacular schools, he advocated for a wisdom-based approach rather than hasty integration methods that could lead to new controversies.

Senator Mustafa Musa interjected, suggesting that the first step should be to standardise the proficiency of the Malay language in vernacular schools, aligning it with national schools as there is currently a disparity. He highlighted that the benchmark for fluency and competence in the Malay language between the school systems is vastly different, affecting communication skills in vernacular school graduates.

Sharing his sentiment, Senator Nik Mohamad Abduh Naik Abdul Aziz stated that the issue of education in vernacular schools needs comprehensive addressing based on a transparent study. He called on the Ministry of Education to resolve this at the co-curricular level and involve both opposition and government for thorough examination.

Regarding parents who still enrol their children in vernacular schools, Senator Tan Sri Mohamad Fatmi Che Salleh believes it is time for the government to review the quality of teaching and learning in national schools. He urged the government to ensure national schools offer quality education and introduce other language teachings to encourage a diverse student body.

The Dewan Negara sitting will continue tomorrow.