Will English be reintroduced for Science and Maths lessons?

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English Will Be Reintroduced for Science and Mathematics Lessons

The Education Ministry will reinstate the policy of teaching Science and Mathematics in English. Prime Minister and acting Education Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced this revival, emphasizing the critical role of English as the native language for these disciplines. This move signifies a significant shift in educational policy, aiming to equip students with essential skills for their future.
Revival of the Policy for Teaching Science and Mathematics in English (PPSMI)

The decision to reintroduce teaching Science and Mathematics in English marks the return of the Policy for Teaching Science and Mathematics in English (PPSMI). This policy was initially implemented in 2003 under Dr Mahathir's previous premiership. It was later dismantled in 2012 by the then-Barisan Nasional administration, which replaced it with the "Uphold Bahasa Malaysia and to Strengthen the English language" (MBMMBI) policy.
Rationale for Reintroducing English Medium Instruction

Dr Mahathir articulated that teaching Science and Mathematics in English is crucial because English is considered the "native language" for both subjects. He stressed the importance of an education policy geared towards equipping students with the necessary skills for productive adult lives, while also acknowledging Malaysia's multiracial and multicultural composition. The Prime Minister highlighted that promoting English mastery within the education system is vital, particularly for the learning of Science and Mathematics.
Scope of the Policy Reintroduction

The Prime Minister indicated that the expansion of English medium instruction would primarily focus on Science and Mathematics. He suggested that it would be less critical to extend this policy to subjects like Geography and History, as these disciplines do not possess an "indigenous language" in the same way. Specific details regarding the timeline for the policy's implementation were not provided in the announcement.

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Will English be reintroduced for Science and Maths lessons?

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