Comment 
by Dr Tan Seng Giaw, DAP National Vice-Chairman and MP for Kepong 
on 20.7.2002 
in Kuala Lumpur

We again urge the Malaysian Government to try teaching English Science and Mathematics in representative schools first, searching for a workable formula

Dr Mahahtir said,¡°However, no decision was made on whether the move would include national-type Chinese and Tamil schools. 

¡°The issue is not so much about improving the standard of English, but more about equipping Malaysians with knowledge.¡±

Many Malay, Chinese and Tamil mother-tongue educationists believe that the Government must improve the teaching of English, instead of introducing English in other subjects. Once English is used to teach Science and Maths, it may then be used in other subjects. Eventually, mother-tongue may only be taught as a subject.

Clearly, the impact of globalisation is big. Malaysians have to be more knowledgeable. The Prime Minister feels that English Science and Maths is a step to acquire knowledge. If Primary Chinese and Tamil schools do not have English Science and Maths, does it mean that pupils in National schools will be more knowledgeable than those in Chinese schools? As Dr Mahathir has said, if we implement them at all types of schools, it will be a bit difficult. 

Even in national schools, there will be obstacles in the implementation of the English Science and Maths. For some reasons, the Government has not included this matter in the Eighth Malaysia Plan and the 10-year Development Plan in Education. Why don¡¯t we select representative schools and try it out first, ascertaining the feasibility.