Muhyiddin U-turns on Chinese independent schools

Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin has made a U-turn on the federal government's decision not to review the status quo on Chinese independent schools in the construction of news schools.

At a press conference in Penang today, Muhyiddin said he had discussed the matter with the prime minister, cabinet members and MCA, and found several suggestions to resolve the issue.

He said there was no point in blaming the MCA or himself, or politicise the issue extensively.

"What is more important is the children's future, whether we can provide the place for them, " he told reporters after attending an event with workers at the Western Digital in Penang today.

"We have a formula (to resolve the issue) and we will inform people about it later," Muhyiddin ( right ) added.

Recently, the education minister said there was an understanding that the schools would be allowed to stay, but without any increase in the number of schools.

He added that these schools were the product of a deal struck between the government and Chinese educationists during the Education Act enforcement in the 1960s.

Rejected and so, stagnated

He said while a fraction of other Chinese schools at that time opted to be transformed into Chinese vernacular schools and teach the prescribed subjects, the independent ones chose to reject the offer and remained unchanged.

Meanwhile, Muhyiddin said the MCA would come back with more details on the issue very soon.

He added that the government had to discuss the format in detail and ensure that they comply with the Education Act guidelines.

"This issue can be resolved and we have told the MCA leaders to come back with more details. It is better than fighting. There are many reports about arguments and asking people to resign," he said.

"Statements are twisted, they are not rational. We do not live for politics alone. It is pointless to just blame the MCA as that would not resolve anything but create anger in people. It is not good leadership," he added.

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