IPOH: A DAP leader has rebuked the reintroduction of science and mathematics subjects in English, saying that it should not be done according to “personal preferences”.
Perak DAP vice-chairman Dr Abdul Aziz Bari said the matter should have been collectively discussed for approval by the Pakatan Harapan presidential council, as well as the Cabinet.
Abdul Aziz, who is also the state’s education, technology, science and environment committee chairman, said the “shocking” announcement by Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, would lead to “confusion”.
“We must put aside personal preferences. If the prime minister makes a shocking announcement without discussing with his friends (party coalition partners), I am afraid this will spark confusion.
“Experts around the world have proven that the teaching and learning of science and mathematics must be in the mother tongue.
“We do not want teachers and students to get confused,” he told reporters after attending a Chinese New Year celebration event organised by Surau Al-Qomar in Taman Pengkalan Utama here, today.
Yesterday, Dr Mahathir who is also acting education minister announced that science and mathematics would once again be taught in English.
Abdul Aziz also reminded Dr Mahathir to adhere to PH’s manifesto on a collective agreement.
He also said such a decision to reintroduce both subjects in English would “affect” students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education and technical and vocational education and training (TVET).
“We are encouraging our students to get into STEM and TVET. By making such a decision, it would affect these students and halt the country’s growth towards a more developed nation.
“No one including the prime minister is bigger than Pakatan Harapan. As an acting education minister, he must remember to follow Pakatan Harapan manifesto. Detailed discussions among parties are crucial before making any decisions,” Abdul Aziz said.
The Teaching of Mathematics and Science in English programme (PPSMI) was introduced in 2003.
PPSMI was fully implemented to all secondary school students later in 2007 and primary school students in 2008 before it was abolished in 2013.