Mastering English The way forward for Tamil school students

We are now living in a globalised world where the tools for communication are very important. Modern technology can assist us in this process but we can only effectively do this through improved mastery of languages. English provides us the link with a majority of the nations of the world and opens up new windows of opportunity.

It is unfortunate to note that in the recent English proficiency test undertaken by 65,292 candidates to local Universities, a majority were categorised as students with low English proficiency. It is essential for us to transform this aspect and adopt dynamic strategies to enable our children to move from the position of limited user to competent user and finally to mastery of the English language.

The Malaysian government has recognised the urgent need for all Malaysians to improve their competencies in the English language. The introduction of essential subjects such as Maths and Science in English is an attempt to inculcate a desire to improve the basic abilities among the young to become competitive in the new economy.

Indians have always had an affinity and appreciation for the English language. They have had a significant past as outstanding orators and creative writers. Over the past years we have lost some of that dynamism. However with the changes in the education policy we can once again build the capabilities of Indian youths in the English language.

The attempt by Manikam and the YSS in preparing this resource book for Tamil students is a strategic move in providing the tools towards excellence. This is a constructive attempt to better equip Tamil school students. What is unique about this book is the ability to study the English language through Tamil. Not many books have been written along this line and I must say that this is one among the first in Malaysia

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I am sure Indian students from Tamil schools will benefit through the reading and study of this material. Furthermore it has the potential as a resource material to assist both parents and teachers with ideas and illustrations to better equip children. Our attempts in strengthening our capabilities in the English language does not imply that we are less committed to the national language, Bahasa Melayu or our mother tongue, Tamil. The contemporary response is a pragmatic one of being able to communicate more effectively and find our place in the new global village.

May we endeavour to master languages and in so doing improve our standing and competitive edge in modern Malaysia. The challenge is before us and there are no short cuts for our community other than hard work, determination and perseverance. I am confident that if we put our hearts and minds for self-improvement we will achieve the goal in due time.

Extracts from the Special Address by Dato Seri S.Samy Vellu, at the launch of the book ‘Learning English Through Tamil’ on July 16, 2003 at Dewan Soma, Wisma Tun Sambanthan, Kuala Lumpur

(Submitted on 21st July 2003)