MELAKA: The discussion surrounding vernacular schools has sparked a disagreement between Melaka DAP Youth (Dapsy) and Umno Youth in the state.
Cassel Craig Krishnan, the chief of Melaka Dapsy, expressed uncertainty over whether Dr. Muhammad Akmal’s advocacy for a single-stream education system to enhance national unity reflects the state government’s stance on vernacular schools, given his position as a state exco member and Merlimau assemblyman.
“Dr. Muhammad Akmal has addressed the issue of vernacular schools in the recent state legislative assembly and has also shared his views on Facebook,” Krishnan stated on Sunday (March 10).
Krishnan suggested that Dr. Muhammad Akmal, also the chief of Umno Youth, should focus on matters related to his exco portfolio as the Melaka rural development, agriculture, and food security committee chairman.
“He should concentrate on issues within his portfolio rather than venturing into unrelated topics,” Krishnan remarked.
According to Krishnan, the Melaka Dapsy believes that fostering unity among different races can be achieved through initiatives such as the Student Integration Plan for Unity (Rimup) and inter-school sports activities, instead of targeting the existence of vernacular schools.
Rimup is a program that promotes collaboration among locals, teachers, and students through shared resources and expertise in various activities.
Krishnan emphasized that the foundation for nurturing strong unity among Malaysia’s diverse population rests with parents, who should instill values of racial harmony and patriotism in their children from a young age.
“We must identify the key elements that can reinforce a sense of unity among the populace,” he added.
In response, Dr. Muhammad Akmal defended his call for a reevaluation of the vernacular education system, stating that it was made with good intentions.
“We must consider the broader perspective, as there is still a significant gap in values and understanding among Malaysia’s multiethnic population even after 67 years of Independence,” he remarked.
Dr. Muhammad Akmal proposed a thorough review of the vernacular education structure to ensure alignment with the national curriculum, the promotion of national values, and proficiency in Bahasa Malaysia as the official language.
“What is the harm in offering constructive suggestions for enhancing our national unity?” he questioned.
