Thursday, February 27, 2014

Reader's response (Final draft)

In order to remain competitive in the English speaking global community, then Prime Minister of Malaysia Mahathir bin Mohamad introduced the PPSMI policy in 2003. This policy was targeted at making a new generation of Malaysians who would be able to communicate in the international language. However, the Malaysian government has decided to abolish its policy on English teaching, as the final results were not ideal. They believe that by teaching in English, it will cause the dilution of their national culture.

In my opinion, the Malaysian government removed the policy despite the risks of a decline in their economic growth was agreeable. At the same time, it is not justifiable that having an English speaking education system would bring about economic success. This was mainly due to the lack of manpower in the education sector. Teaching in English requires many capable teachers who are able to converse and speak well in English. Hence, only the privileged schools have the opportunity to hire English speaking teachers to teach. Therefore, causing a possible skill disparity between English schools and other schools. Students who attend English school would have an advantage in the global economy when looking for a job, whereas the rest of the students would be limited to local companies. Thus, it will be unfair to students who work equally hard.

On the other hand, teaching in English might undermine the Malaysian traditions. Singapore is a very good example whereby its younger generations are weak in their mother tongue. It has become increasingly common to find young Singaporeans who do not and cannot speak their language. As families shift towards westernised cultures, traditions are slowly forgotten. Hence in an attempt to preserve the Malaysian identity, the policy was removed.

In conclusion, I agree with the Malaysian government revoking the policy because it would result in a disparity in skills. This might social problems to arise and conflicts to occur. In addition, it is important not the lose sight of local traditions as the west has a profound influence over everything.

1 comment:

  1. not ideal. LINK They believe
    removed the policy despite the risks of a decline in their economic growth was agreeable. ???
    At the same time, it is not justifiable that having an English speaking education system would bring about economic success. REPHRASE / TENSE
    As families shiftWW/REG
    This might ^ social problems to arise and conflicts to occur. In addition, it is important not the??? lose sight of local traditions as the west has a profound influence over /everything??/.

    ReplyDelete