VERNACULAR schools are once again dominating the headlines and the forums on social media, with critics harping on them being a hindrance towards national unity.
Its defenders will swear by the quality of education being offered at Chinese schools, highlighting the growing number of non-Chinese at these institutions as proof that many more parents are seeing the benefits of sending their children for a vernacular education.
A recent article in the In Real Life portal detailing a Malay student’s experience of studying in such an environment has sparked much discussion.
Identifying himself as just Haseef, the former SJKC student outlined the many of the benefits of his vernacular education experience, which had helped shape his outlook as well as given him an added competitive edge in his career.
Aside from the obvious linguistic advantages, Haseef said schooling in a vernacular institution broadened his perspective and allowed him greater understanding of the culture of non-Malays.
The protagonist even described being able to speak Mandarin as akin to having a “superpower” which greatly impressed relatives and multifarious traders at wet and night markets.
His story elicited plenty of comments when shared on the portal’s Facebook page, including many non-Chinese who shared Haseef’s experience or have sent their offspring to vernacular schools.
This is a sample of what was said:
Many non-Chinese parents confirmed that vernacular education has given their children an added edge in the employment market.
More than a few believed that vernacular schools promoted, not destroyed, racial harmony.
Many vented their frustrations at the politicians who have used vernacular education to further their twisted agendas and sowing the seeds of disharmony.
Meanwhile some said many critics lack proper perspectives on the issue.
Detractors among the 1k+ comments were few and far between, with some very obviously the work of mischief-making cyber troopers, which FocusM will not share here. Suffice to say, the vast majority reacted positively to Haseef’s story, underscoring the fact that many believe that vernacular schools are beneficial to the country.
Perhaps the sentiment can best be summed up by a Malay netizen’s humorous comment highlighting his ability to say “crucial” words in Chinese, as seen below. – April 10, 2024
