The number of English Literature students who sat for the STPM has decreased, from 94 in 2018, to 65 in 2022, with 30 teachers currently teaching the subject in secondary schools and Form Six colleges nationwide.
Of this, only five teachers are teaching the subject at the Form Six level, the Education Ministry told StarEdu.
To rekindle students’ interest in the subject, the ministry has been providing training and professional development for teachers to improve their teaching methods.These initiatives include a specialist course in teaching literature in English as a second language (ESL), which focuses on literature teaching strategies, and the introduction of Malaysian and young adult literature, including poetry, short stories, novels and drama.
“These equip teachers with the necessary content knowledge to teach literature effectively and encourage the production of creative literary works,” said the ministry.
Teachers who are well-versed in literature contribute significantly to the development of strong communication skills, preparing students for higher education and their future careers, it added.
“A teacher who is well-versed in literature shapes not only academic success but also the personal growth, participation and emotional intelligence of students.
“This will create a positive impact on students as teachers with a strong background in English Literature provide more in-depth and nuanced instruction, introducing students to a wide range of texts, genres, and cultural perspectives.
“Their expertise enables them to employ innovative and engaging teaching methods, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and a love of reading in students,” said the ministry.
The Malaysian Folklore Storyfest (MFS) programme, which promotes the use of English and instils noble values based on the appreciation of culture, manners, and etiquette of various ethnic groups, for character building, is another initiative being carried out by the ministry.
“The MFS also promotes the revival of Malaysian folklore through theatre while giving students the opportunity to use English in various activities in a relaxed and casual setting.
“The use of English is emphasised in reading and presentations, acting, performances, competitions, scriptwriting, and collection and publication of folklore scripts written by students,” the ministry said, adding that regular reading for performances enhances fluency through repeated practice, while dissecting stories and scripts promotes critical thinking and engagement.
The ministry said participating in acting, performances and competitions builds confidence and public speaking skills, and working on scriptwriting and group performances fosters collaborative learning.
Performing folklore stories instils cultural appreciation, making reading more meaningful and engaging, it said.
Over time, these diverse and enjoyable activities create a dynamic learning environment that improves students’ reading habits and interest in literature.
Other initiatives to promote English Literature and reading in schools include:
Last week, its deputy director-general (school operations) Zainal Abas said steps were underway to improve English language literacy among students and teachers.
He said the Education Ministry’s latest English Language Education Enhancement Plan (3PBI) complements the roadmap and blueprint, and is an initiative under the Upholding Malay Language and Strengthening Command of English (MBMMBI) policy.
The 3PBI intends to strengthen English language education to support humane education for the formation of a Madani generation, he said on Aug 13, adding that the 3PBI would ensure that the momentum of the English language education transformation process initiated in the Malaysia Education Blueprint since 2013 can be continued in a focused and systematic manner.
