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.