Fadhlina: Decline in Chinese enrolment won’t harm learning in SJKCs

Fadhlina: Decline in Chinese enrolment won’t harm learning in SJKCs

KUALA LUMPUR: The admission of students from multiple ethnic groups into Chinese vernacular primary schools (SJKC) does not compromise the quality of teaching and learning, said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek.

On the contrary, she added, it strengthens national unity, in line with the aspirations of the national education system.

In a written parliamentary reply, Fadhlina said the medium of instruction in SJKCs remains Mandarin, while Malay and English continue to be taught as compulsory subjects under the national curriculum.

“Non-native Chinese-speaking students are supported through transition programmes, language interventions, and differentiated pedagogical approaches implemented by trained teachers,” she said.

She was responding to a question from Muhammad Fawwaz Mohamad Jan (PN-Permatang Pauh) on whether the decline of Chinese student enrolment in SJKCs, which has led to the admission of students from other ethnic groups, could negatively affect teaching and learning due to language differences.

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Fadhlina added that data from the Education Ministry (MoE) show that some SJKCs, particularly in rural areas, are experiencing a decline in enrolment due to demographic changes and population migration.

However, she said, this trend should not be generalised, as overall participation in SJKCs remains stable, with growing interest among parents of various ethnicities.

Looking ahead, she said the MoE will continue to uphold the principles of inclusivity while respecting parents’ choices within the framework of the National Education Policy.

“The MoE remains committed to prioritising the quality of learning, mastery of the national language, national unity, and the well-being of students, regardless of the type of school or their ethnic background,” she said.