Tamil School Intelligence & Advocacy • tamilschool.org
Special Meeting 2023
11 September 2023 – 19 September 2023
MPs Urge Flexibility for Tamil Schools in Dual Language Programme, Call for Fairer Funding
During parliamentary sittings on 12 and 14 September 2023, discussions concerning Tamil schools (SJK(T)s) highlighted challenges in implementing the Dual Language Programme (DLP) and broader concerns over school infrastructure funding. MPs called for greater flexibility for SJK(T)s to adopt the DLP and criticised delays in releasing approved funds for school upgrades.
Key Findings
On 12 September 2023, Tuan M. Kulasegaran a/l Murugeson (Ipoh Barat) advocated for increased flexibility for Tamil schools applying for the Dual Language Programme (DLP), citing difficult conditions faced by many SJK(T)s in implementing the programme for English and Science.
On 14 September 2023, Tuan Syed Saddiq bin Syed Abdul Rahman (Muar) raised concerns regarding the government's alleged withholding of approved funds for general school infrastructure projects, such as new halls in Muar, due to his opposition status.
On 14 September 2023, Tuan Syed Saddiq bin Syed Abdul Rahman (Muar) also urged the government to implement the promised direct application process for school upgrades, including ICT, without delay, a process that would affect all schools.
DLP Implementation Guidelines: School boards and PTA leaders in SJK(T)s should monitor any forthcoming announcements or policy adjustments from the Ministry of Education regarding the flexibility and conditions for implementing the Dual Language Programme.
School Infrastructure Funding: Stakeholders should actively engage with their local MPs and the Ministry of Education to advocate for a transparent and equitable direct application process for school infrastructure and ICT upgrades, ensuring funds are disbursed without political interference.