 Dr Pillai walked us through the labyrinthian complexities of the Malaysian educational system that sometiimes seemed to defy logic. Seemingly never-ending vacillating government policies have once again resulted in competent English language instruction being the domain of private schools, and therefore a prerogative of those who can afford them. Seeing as English ability is instrumental in gaining high status employment in Malaysia, its possession acts as a gatekeeping tool, creating and maintaining disparities among the strata of society. The current state of English language education has come a full circle whereby those with the opportunity to attain it are a minority, yet hold economic and social positions of power. |
Meeting Minutes > 2015 Meeting Minutes >