Set up Rukun Negara Club in vernacular and religious schools too, says G25

The G25 group of eminent Malays has called for the establishment of Rukun Negara Clubs in all schools, including vernacular and religious schools. The group praised the plans of Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek to expand the Rukun Negara culture among schoolchildren and urged the formation of more clubs, including private schools. The G25 emphasized that all types of schools should be involved, including the ones controlled by state religious departments, which should fall under the purview of the Education Ministry and follow the national education curriculum.

In addition to the expansion of Rukun Negara Clubs, the G25 proposed that the Federal Constitution should be taught in schools alongside the Rukun Negara, as the two subjects complement each other. The group suggested teaching the principles of the Constitution to primary school students, particularly on the aspects of fundamental liberties and human rights. They also mentioned that the part of the Constitution dealing with the system of government could be taught at the secondary school level. According to the G25, understanding the Constitution would help students grasp their constitutional rights and obligations, leading them to become better citizens.

The G25 further highlighted the importance of teaching students about the historical context behind the formulation of the Rukun Negara by the National Consultative Council after the racial clashes of May 13, 1969. They expressed their concern that although the Rukun Negara has been accepted as Malaysia’s National Philosophy since 1970, it has not been given a central role in the country, unlike Indonesia’s Pancasila. The G25 believes that incorporating the Rukun Negara into school culture will help foster responsible and broad-minded citizens who are not easily influenced by divisive politics.

Recognizing the diversity of Malaysia, the G25 emphasized the need for Malaysians to come together as one big family, understanding that no race can isolate itself from others. They called for a widespread appreciation of the spirit and principles of the Rukun Negara throughout the entire education system, encompassing early childhood to higher education in both public and private sectors. The group suggested involving various sectors of the government, society, education experts, and civil society organizations to achieve this goal.

The G25 also addressed other pressing issues in education, such as the lack of quality education, the need to empower teachers and enhance their teaching competencies, and the reevaluation of the school curriculum and allocation of time for core subjects. They noted the imbalance between religious studies and STEM subjects in primary schools, suggesting that some religious subjects could be part of an after-school curriculum to allow more time for STEM subjects during school hours.

Lastly, the G25 called upon Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to bring the Malaysia Education Blueprint Report 2013-2025 to the attention of the Cabinet. They emphasized the importance of consensus among ministers to implement the necessary changes in the education system.