Stop Language Disputes, Prioritize Children’s Future: PM Anwar

BENTONG: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has called on Malaysians to stop prolonged debates over language issues and concentrate on building a more competitive and united future for the nation’s children.

Speaking at Sekolah Jenis Kebangsaan Cina (SJKC) Perting here, Anwar stressed that the government’s multilingual education policy does not undermine Bahasa Melayu as the national and official language but aims to promote national unity while giving all students equal opportunities to master multiple languages.

“Being able to speak more than one language is a crucial asset for our youth to face global challenges and enhance competitiveness, without compromising our national identity,” he said.

The Prime Minister emphasized that inter-ethnic disputes over language should no longer be the priority. “Our focus must be on improving the quality of life and securing the future of our children. They must be prepared to compete for jobs not just locally but across Asia and globally. That is why language, science, mathematics, digital skills, and artificial intelligence (AI) must be mastered from the earliest stages of education,” he added.

Also present at the gathering were Finance Minister II Datuk Seri Amir Hamzah Azizan, Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar, Pahang Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Wan Rosdy Wan Ismail, and Bentong MP Young Syefura Othman.

Anwar urged that efforts to improve education quality should transcend ethnic differences, with all stakeholders focusing on school development, teacher training, and adequate facilities. He noted that differences of opinion on education matters can be discussed constructively, but the ultimate goal must remain: making education a unifying tool and a driver of national progress.

As part of this initiative, the Prime Minister announced RM13.5 million in funding for improvement projects and additional facilities at SJKC Perting. An immediate allocation of RM300,000 has been approved to begin preliminary work.

The funding will support the construction of an additional six-classroom block for the Integrated Special Education Programme (PPKI) and one classroom for the Integrated Preschool at SJKC Perting. The investment also prepares the school for the voluntary enrollment of five-year-olds into preschool and six-year-olds into Year One starting next year.

“I hope all parties school administrators, teachers, parents, and the local community continue to support this school so it can serve as a model for others,” Anwar said.