Mandatory Malay And History Subjects Will Promote Unity, Not Discrimination - Malay Language Icon

KUALA LUMPUR, Jan 26 (Bernama) -- The requirement for all schools to take Malay Language (Bahasa Melayu) and History starting in 2026 is not a form of compulsion or discrimination, but rather a move that transcends religion and educational streams to strengthen the collective responsibility of Malaysians, said lawyer and National Malay Language Icon, Lim San Shien.

He said that the requirement aims to remind students and society to revitalise and internalise the national language - not just to fulfill academic needs, but to practice it in daily life.

According to Lim, mastering Malay as a shared language will facilitate social interaction, enhance national integration, and strengthen the country’s unity.

He further described the ruling as a move that creates an equal path for all students from various educational backgrounds - including Chinese schools, religious schools, international schools, and private schools - to pursue studies at public universities.

“By requiring all students to take and pass both subjects regardless of background, there will be no conflict or slanderous claims of unfair treatment. Furthermore, it will increase mutual understanding and facilitate learning conducted in Malay,” he said.

Lim made these remarks when appearing as a guest on the Bernama TV programme Darah Muda: Bahasa Melayu Diperkukuh, Bahasa Lain Diperkasa (Strengthening Malay, Empowering Other Languages) tonight.

Last Tuesday, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim launched the National Education Plan (RPN) 2026-2035, which, among other things, mandates the study of Malay Language and History according to the National Curriculum in all schools, including People's Religious Schools (SAR), International Schools, and Private Schools, to empower student identity.

In the meantime, Lim said efforts to empower the Malay language at the school level must be implemented through a comprehensive approach involving both the government and the community, in line with the King’s decree emphasising the importance of strengthening mastery of the national language.

He suggested that this approach should not focus solely on formal learning but should be expanded through interactive activities such as public speaking competitions, lectures, and creative content production.

The lawyer also suggested utilising writing platforms such as newspapers, magazines, and social media as mediums for students and youth to voice their opinions and discuss current issues in Malay.

Additionally, he noted that creative social media content - such as short videos, casual forums, and sharing correct vocabulary -could be an effective approach aligned with modern technological developments.

--BERNAMA