ISKANDAR PUTERI: Johor has called on the Federal Government to improve the country’s education system to ensure that the younger generation remains competitive.
Regent of Johor Tunku Ismail Sultan Ibrahim said proactive measures and changes have to be made to the syllabus of subjects that are no longer relevant.
“If this cannot be done at the national level, let Johor become the first state to change the syllabus in our schools," he said when opening the third term of the 15th state legislative assembly sitting here on Thursday (May 9).
“Quality education is the basis of a developed state. It will help solve various issues and bring more job opportunities to the next generation.
“It has always been my priority to ensure that the people of Johor have food on the table, access to basic amenities, healthcare and quality education,” he added.
Tunku Ismail also brought up a recent World Bank report as well as the country’s below-par performance in the Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) in his speech.
“If we do not face those realities, we should not complain when our next generation is less competitive compared to their peers.
“New initiatives that are more proactive are needed to equip youths to face upcoming challenges,” said Tunku Ismail, who is also Johor Crown Prince.
It was reported that Malaysia’s achievements in the international assessment Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study, as well as Pisa, have not yet reached the top third position as desired in the Malaysia Education Blueprint 2013-2025.
On a separate note, the Regent wants all 56 Johor assemblymen to do their part in eradicating hardcore poverty in the state by 2026.
“I decree that there should be no more heads of household listed as hardcore poor after the end of 2025.
“There are 19 months left for you to identify and look for them, and give them the necessary assistance to lift them out of hardcore poverty, through programmes by government agencies, private sector and non-governmental organisations,” he added.
