2 varsities for S’poreans to study Malay

TWO Malaysian universities have reserved nine places for Singaporean teachers to pursue a degree in Bahasa Melayu.

The two – University of Malaya and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia – had reserved the slots following a request by Singapore’s Ministry of Education.

Malaysia’s Education Minister, Datuk Amar Dr Sulaiman Daud, said yesterday that Singapore was also requesting another 10 places in the coming years.

He said Singapore officials considered studying the language in Malaysia, where it is the medium of instruction, was more effective.

He said that this would strengthen co-operation in the educational field between the two countries, a theme that was discussed with Singapore’s Prime Minister, Mr Goh Chok Tong, and Education Minister Lee Yock Suan.

Dr Sulaiman said that in separate talks with Mr Lee, the latter had accepted his invitation to visit Malaysia.

There could also be tie-ups between the universities of the two countries and student exchanges across the causeway.

In his discussion with the Prime Minister, Mr Goh had suggested that Singapore students spend time in Bukit Cahaya, Malaysia’s agricultural park, in Shah Alam, Selangor.

“At the same time, Malaysian students can come and stay in Singapore in high-rise buildings,” said Dr Sulaiman.

“The whole idea is to enhance understanding which is vital for two neighbouring countries.”