Science and Mathematics to be taught in English again

KUALA LUMPUR: Science and Mathematics subjects will once again be taught in English.

Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who is also the acting education minister, said the move would allow for a better mastery of the language.

“It is very important that we give time for (the study of) English, particularly in learning Science and Mathematics (subjects).

“Geography and History can be conducted in any language, but both Science and Mathematics are not indigenous fields of knowledge.

“Therefore, we are going to use English in the teaching of Science and Mathematics,” he said during a special meeting with the education ministry management officials yesterday.

Dr Mahathir said it was found that those who studied Science in Bahasa Malaysia were unable to apply it in their work where English is required.

A video of Dr Mahathir’s address was uploaded to his Facebook and Twitter. However, there was no mention of when exactly the move will be implemented.

The teaching of Mathematics and Science in English (PPSMI) was introduced during the 2003 school session to all students of Year One in primary schools and Form One of the secondary level.

PPSMI was fully implemented to all secondary school students in 2007 and primary school students in 2008 before it was abolished in 2013.

In his address, Dr Mahathir also said the country and its people wanted to see reforms in education policy.

“I have noticed certain weaknesses which need to be looked into and we need to work together to do it.

“Of course, my views are not always popular or acceptable to many people, but I feel that I need to push certain things to make sure our children grow up and able to tackle problems in their adult life.

“That is the purpose of education,” he said.

Dr Mahathir also noted the contributions made towards the development of the country, despite facing a few setbacks.

“Much of the development of this country is based on good working relationships between different races.

“If the country is not stable, at war, we can forget about development.

“Everything will be focused on how to kill each other more efficiently... and the killers will be the winners,” he said.