Muhyiddin: Decision on language of instruction for Science and Math to issue soon
http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2009/5/27/nation/3987378&sec=nation

PUTRAJAYA: The decision on the language of instruction for Science and Mathematics is expected to be made in the next few weeks.

Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin said he has almost concluded all his deliberations on the teaching of Science and Mathematics in English.

“The decision will be made soon. I will brief the Prime Minister before the issue is brought to the Cabinet,” he told reporters after meeting representatives from seven Chinese associations at his office.

Muhyiddin who is also Education Minister, said he would take into account all aspects including strengthening Bahasa Malaysia, the mother tongue of the Chinese and Indians and the need to strengthen proficiency in English.

Asked if any change or modification to the policy would only affect those in Year One next year, Muhyiddin said he did not want to pre-empt the decision.

“You have to wait for my announcement.

“It will be a comprehensive plan which we are submitting, not just a change decision.

“I want everyone, including parents, to be happy. Their children should not be victims of circumstances whatever decision the Government makes,” he said.

Describing his meeting with the associations as positive, he said they wanted the policy to be abolished.

The teaching of Science and Mathematics in English or PPSMI was introduced in phases, beginning with Year One, Form One and Lower Six students in 2003.

Other issues which were brought up by the associations included the Unified Examinations Certificate (UEC).

“I explained that the Government cannot recognise the UEC as it is not based on the national education policy,” Muhyiddin said.

He said the Government had earlier approved the relocation of 14 Chinese schools, adding that they were in Selangor, Kuala Lumpur, Johor, Kedah, Negri Sembilan, Malacca, Pahang and Sarawak.

“We have the allocation and we want the associations to help with the location aspect,” he said.

On the issue of aid to Chinese independent schools, Muhyiddin said the Government was unable to do so as the schools were independent.

On the exemption from paying fees for public examinations (at the independent schools), he said it would affect other schools such as people’s religious schools.

“The decision is up to the Finance Minister,” he added.

Dong Zong chairman Dr Yap Sin Tian said the associations handed a memorandum to Muhyiddin on the PPSMI issue.

“We are thankful he made time to see us.

“We exchanged views in a good atmosphere,” he said.