Deputy Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin today advised students to take the initiative to master the English language saying fluency in the language would boost their confidence to communicate with
the world.
"There is no greater reflection of a country's progress than the involvement of our students at an international level. This is the stark truth," said Muhyiddin, who is also the education minister.
Students who master the language would bring the nation to greater heights with their ability to come up with brilliant solutions and ideas, he said in his speech at the closing of the national-level English Language Unity Carnival here.
The text of his speech was read out by Deputy Education Minister P. Kamalanathan.
Muhyiddin said it was necessary for students to participate in extra-curricular activities, such as the English Language Unity Carnival, to enable them strengthen their fluency in the English Language.
"Alongside with that, the carnival is the best platform to showcase various English-based activities and programmes organised by the Education Ministry.
"The initiative taken for this carnival is something that should be lauded and appreciated.
"It (the carnival) seeks to instil the interest of mastering English among students as well as promote activities in line with the implementation of the policy to uphold Bahasa Melayu and strengthen the English language," he said.
Muhyiddin said the carnival should be seen as a step forward in the government's perpetual effort to develop first-class human capital.
"To facilitate and realise this dream, teachers also need to play a pivotal role in creating a generation with immense potential and a variety of skills.
"There is a demand now for teachers to produce creative and innovative ideas and new strategies that can enhance and enrich the dynamics of the teaching and learning process," he said.
In line with that, this year the ministry sent about 20,000 English teachers for various courses which focused on improving and enhancing language skills so that the teachers could equip themselves with the necessary skills, he said.
The contingent from Sabah emerged as the overall champion in competitions held at the carnival and won the Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin trophy.
Bernama
Mon Oct 20 2014
MUHYIDDIN: There is no greater reflection of a country's progress than the involvement of our students at an international level. - File Photo
Who is Prabowo Subianto, incoming president of Indonesia?
A wealthy ex-general with ties to Indonesia's popular outgoing president and its dictatorial past, looks set to be its next leader.
Iran's supreme leader says Hamas leader's death will not halt 'Axis of Resistance'
The "Axis of Resistance", built up with years of Iranian support, includes Hamas, the Lebanese Hezbollah group, the Houthi movement in Yemen, and various Shi'ite groups in Iraq and Syria.
Putin says Russia willing to seek compromises between Iran and Israel
Russia is ready to help seek compromises between arch-foes Israel and Iran, President Vladimir Putin said on Friday, saying these would be difficult but possible.
What proposals will Russia push at the BRICS summit?
The proposal is also to establish a BRICS reinsurance company to allow uninterrupted shipment of goods and key commodities between members.
Indonesia's free meals plan in the spotlight as Prabowo readies for office
Prabowo calls the programme one of the main drivers of economic growth, eventually set to add an estimated 2.5 million jobs.
Astro AWANI's revamped English news website, AWANI International, launches on Oct 21
Astro AWANI's revamped English platform delivers in-depth global news and expert analysis to keep you informed on key developments.
Israeli strikes kill 33 people in Jabalia refugee camp in Gaza, medics say
Residents of Jabalia said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp after pushing through suburbs and residential districts.
Liam Payne's ex-partner calls for media restraint after 'painful' death
Cheryl Tweedy used her statement to urge the media to remember they had a seven-year-old son, Bear, who could read the reports.
Analysts: Indonesia's strong MoF leadership team to boost investor confidence
Sri Mulyani Indrawati as head of Indonesia's Ministry of Finance is expected to instil confidence among investors.
Biden offers both a carrot and a stick to Israel as his term nears an end
Israel has frequently resisted US advice and has caused political difficulties for the Biden administration.
Putin says BRICS will generate most of global economic growth
Russian President Vladimir Putin will host a summit of the group in the city of Kazan on Oct. 22-24.
ISIS Malaysia's perspective of Budget 2025
An excellent rakyat-centric budget under the overarching principle of a caring and humane economy.
Budget 2025: Record increase in STR, SARA aid initiatives
The government will provide a significant boost to the Sumbangan Tunai Rahmah (STR) and Sumbangan Asas Rahmah (SARA) initiatives next year.
Budget 2025: EPF contributions to be made mandatory for foreign workers – PM Anwar
The government plans to make it compulsory for all non-citizen workers to contribute to the Employees Provident Fund (EPF).
What policies to expect from Indonesia's new President Prabowo
Prabowo will be open to foreign investment, his aide has said, such as by offering investors management of airports and sea ports.
Budget 2025: Govt allocates RM470 mil to empower women's participation in PMKS
The Women's Leadership Apprenticeship Program will be intensified as an effort to produce more female corporate personalities.
Israel sends more troops into north Gaza, deepens raid
Residents of Jabalia in northern Gaza said Israeli tanks had reached the heart of the camp, using heavy air and ground fire.
Indonesia ramps up security ahead of Prabowo's inauguration
Prabowo Subianto will be sworn in as Indonesia's president on Sunday with Vice President-elect, Gibran Rakabuming Raka, also taking office.
Immediate allocation of RM150 mil for local authorities, DID to tackle flash floods
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this allocation is intended to address the recent flash floods that hit the capital and several major towns.
Budget 2025: Sabah, Sarawak to continue receiving among highest allocations - PM
Sabah and Sarawak continues to be prioritised under Budget 2025, with allocations of RM6.7 billion and RM5.9 billion respectively.