PAS moots Chinese, Tamil classes for all in national schools to bridge racial gap

PAS MUKTAMAR | PAS has, for the first time, proposed introducing Chinese and Tamil language subjects for all students in national schools as part of efforts to foster unity and eliminate racial distrust.

Deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said the move would help Malaysians better understand each other’s languages and cultures, thereby strengthening inter-ethnic relations.

“We must present ourselves as a party that solves problems, not just raises them. Everyone knows the problems, but what are the solutions?

"If we can address the issues that arise and show mechanisms to resolve them… As I said earlier, on the matter of unity. Why do sensitivities arise between us? "It is because we distrust each other. Language barriers are one of the causes.

“When Malays hear Chinese people speaking their language, they don’t understand, and may feel suspicious, even if nothing negative is being said,” he said at the PAS Supporters Wing (DHPP) National Convention in Sungai Petani, Kedah, today.

Also present was PAS vice-president and DHPP adviser Idris Ahmad.

"Similarly, when Indians converse in their own language, Malays may not understand and feel suspicious.

"So why not introduce Tamil and Chinese language subjects in national schools? Children from all races can learn and understand each other,” Tuan Ibrahim added.

'Malay as the foundation'

Speaking later at a press conference, Tuan Ibrahim stressed that the proposal aligned with PAS’ aspiration for a more just and harmonious Malaysia where the rights of all races are respected and protected.

However, he said this must go hand in hand with strengthening Malay language proficiency among non-Malays.

“We’ve been working for a long time, and we know that Malay is the core as our national language. We must empower it.

Don’t let Malaysians themselves not understand the national anthem. ‘I don’t know the national anthem. I cannot sing it.’ That’s a basic requirement that must be mastered. In fact, even some Malays may not have mastered it,” he said.

Earlier, in front of more than 200 attendees, Tuan Ibrahim also emphasised PAS’ commitment to an inclusive and non-coercive approach in religious and cultural matters.

Citing Kelantan as an example, he said the PAS-led state government allows alcohol sales for non-Muslims and is home to the largest Buddha statue in Southeast Asia.

“We don’t force, we don’t reject. In Kelantan, if you want to talk about Buddhism, the largest statue in Southeast Asia is there, freely.

"When the time comes to shape a new Malaysian politics, a new Malaysian dimension, we should strive for a more just, more harmonious order that better fulfils everyone’s rights," he said.

MIC ‘still in exploratory stage’

On a separate matter, Tuan Ibrahim said there had been no official discussion with MIC on electoral cooperation.

“We are still waiting. They are not yet ‘engaged’, only in the ‘exploratory’ stage.

"We will look at the situation based on the offers or proposals. Later, we will respond, insya-Allah,” he said.

He added that the suggestion to work with MIC did not mean PAS no longer needed DHPP.

“We welcome everyone to sit together, discuss, formulate and take joint action plans among the races in Perikatan Nasional. For us, our attitude is open.

"MIC may be one party, and including MIPP, representing the Indian community. Since the Indian community has many parties, for us it’s fine. Our principle is, if they want and if they ask, we are open," he said.

"We will field Indian candidates in certain places where it needs to be shown. Similarly, in certain areas, perhaps Chinese candidates should be highlighted.

"In any case, we remain open to welcoming the participation of any political party or NGO,” he added.

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