KUALA LUMPUR – His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, has underscored the importance of the Malay language and Malaysian history in any proposal to recognise alternative education systems.
Delivering his Royal Address at the Opening Ceremony of the Fifth Term of the 15th Parliament on 19 January, His Majesty emphasised that education remains the cornerstone of nation building, identity formation, and the country’s future.
He insisted that any system introduced must align with the National Education Policy, which places Bahasa Melayu as the national language and Malaysian history as a compulsory subject.
“If you want to create a new education system, it must be made in line with the National Education Policy, and Malay must be the main language because it is the National Language,” His Majesty declared.
The King further stated that those unwilling to accept Bahasa Melayu should reconsider their place in Malaysia, reinforcing the language’s role as a unifying force across diverse communities. “If there are those who do not accept Bahasa Malay, it is better not to sit in Malaysia,” he said.
His Majesty’s remarks come at a time when debates over education reforms have resurfaced, particularly regarding the recognition of international curricula and private schooling systems.
While such proposals aim to broaden educational opportunities, the King’s statement highlights the need to preserve national identity and cultural heritage.
Education experts have long argued that the Malay language and Malaysian history are essential in fostering unity among the country’s multi-ethnic population.
The emphasis on these subjects ensures that students, regardless of background, share a common understanding of Malaysia’s journey as a nation.
The King’s call also reflects broader concerns about globalisation and its impact on local traditions. With increasing numbers of Malaysians pursuing international qualifications, policymakers face the challenge of balancing global competitiveness with national values.
His Majesty’s decree sets a clear expectation for lawmakers and education authorities to safeguard the integrity of Malaysia’s education system.
The Royal Address is expected to shape parliamentary discussions in the coming weeks, particularly as the government continues to refine policies under the Malaysia Education Blueprint.
By reaffirming the central role of Bahasa Melayu and Malaysian history, the Yang di-Pertuan Agong has signalled that while Malaysia welcomes innovation in education, it must never come at the expense of national identity.
