The Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia (Page) has revealed “its true colours” by indicating that its members will vote for the opposition if the government denies schools the option to teach science and mathematics in English.

Dr Puad Zarkashi A Berita Harian report today quoted Deputy Education Minister Mohd Puad Zarkashi as saying that the credibility of Page comes into question because the lobby group has politicised the matter.

"There is no need for any threatening tones on votes in the general election. If Page is truly sincere in championing education issues, then don't politicise it," he reportedly said.

According to the report, the government has never made decisions on policies based on threats but has relied on in-depth research.

"Page has not done thorough research including from the aspect of teachers' capacity or whether students had answered in English or Malay when their results improved," Mohd Puad told the Malay daily.

The government has removed the option to teach the two subjects in English in schools.

Last Sunday, Page chairperson Noor Azimah Abdul Rahim said there are some 5.4 million students with as many parents who are voters.

As such, if the government gives schools the choice to retain the PPSMI policy, parents will help ensure the ruling coalition regain its two-thirds majority in Parliament.

Berita Harian

also reported that Page had submitted a memorandum to the Prime Minister's Office yesterday, calling on the premier to intervene into the matter.