Barisan Nasional component party Gerakan's call for the teaching of science and mathematics in primary schools to revert to vernacular languages has revived debate on an issue that has been contentious from the start.

News reports yesterday quoted Gerakan deputy president Dr Koh Tsu Koon as saying that use of the mother tongue to teach the two subjects would enable better understanding among pupils.

Primary schools adopted teaching the subjects in English from January 2003, but Chinese schools were allowed some latitude in implementing the policy. The switch was intended to improve pupils' command of the English language.

The National Union of Teaching Profession (NUTP) was not in favour of Gerakan's call, according to a Bernama report today.

NUTP secretary-general Lok Yim Pheng was quoted as saying the issue should not have been raised.

The national policy on language and education should not change "like a speed boat", as this could have negative effects, she said.

However, Chinese education movement Dong Zong chairperson Dr Yap Sin Tian said wrong policies, especially those involving education and the future of Malaysians "should be rectified".

"When something is wrong it must be rectified. Otherwise it will go against the principle and value of education," he said.

He criticised Lok, a teacher, whom he said should have a better grasp of the negative impact of poor policies on students.

Commending Gerakan for openly suggesting a policy review, Yap said he hoped the party would also raise the issue in the cabinet.

"We appreciate Gerakan's call. But I hope the party will also ensure that the policy is reviewed as soon as possible. We wish to see a positive development," he said.

Lee Sing Chooi, who heads the MCA education bureau head, declined to comment when contacted.

In Chinese schools, teaching of the subjects follows a 2-4-3 formula - two periods for English, four for mathematics and three for science in a week, from Primary One to Three.

No decision has been made thus far as to whether the policy will be implemented for Primary Four students next year.