REVIVING English as the medium of instruction for science and mathematics in schools is still in the initial stages of discussions, according to Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

“The discussion to revive the teaching and learning of science and mathematics in English (PPSMI) is still at the early stages. There is no decision yet,” she said at an event in Klang.

Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said two days ago that there will be increased focus on the teaching of science and mathematics in English, having taken over the education portfolio after the resignation of Dr Maszlee Malik on January 3.

“Science and mathematics are not indigenous fields of knowledge,” the acting education minister yesterday told his first meeting with ministry officials since assuming the post earlier this month.

“They come from abroad, and most of it comes to us in English. Therefore, we are going to use English to teach the subjects.”

A segment of the meeting was shared on Dr Mahathir’s Facebook page. – February 2, 2020.