MIC Calls for Alternative to Proposed Tamil Teaching Hour Reduction

The Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC) has voiced opposition to a proposed reduction in Tamil language teaching hours in schools, arguing that such cuts would undermine efforts to preserve the language among younger generations.

MIC deputy president M Saravanan put forward an alternative approach, suggesting that the new Character Building module earmarked for implementation could be incorporated into existing Moral Education periods rather than creating a separate curriculum allocation that would compress Tamil instruction time.

The proposal reflects ongoing concerns within the Indian Malaysian community about the status of Tamil-medium education in the national school system. Language preservation advocates have consistently raised alarms about declining enrolment and resources dedicated to Tamil instruction.

Saravanan's recommendation seeks to address both education policy objectives—introducing character building curriculum while protecting the allocation of classroom time for Tamil language learning. The suggestion indicates the party's preference for a consolidated approach to new educational requirements rather than one that would fragment existing language programme schedules.

The matter remains under discussion among relevant education authorities and stakeholder communities as policymakers weigh competing curriculum demands in Malaysia's multi-ethnic school system.