PENANG is ideally positioned to become the first state in Malaysia to establish a Tamil secondary school (SMT), says K. Kumaran (PH–Bagan Dalam). He shared this during the State Legislative Assembly in Light Street today.
Kumaran highlighted that Penang is among the states with the highest number of Tamil primary schools (SJKT), boasting more than 28 schools.
“Every year, thousands of Tamil students completing Year 6 must transition to mainstream secondary schools, facing a sudden change in the language of instruction.
“This gap affects academic performance, mastery of Malay, Science, and Mathematics, and increases the risk of school dropouts, especially among B40 families.
“Therefore, the establishment of an SMT is no longer just an aspiration but an urgent need to ensure equitable access to secondary education for Tamil students,” he added.
Kumaran outlined several factors that make Penang an ideal state to set up a Tamil secondary school (SMT), including:
a) A stable and significant Tamil student population,
b) A progressive state education ecosystem, encompassing STEM, TVET, and future technologies.
c) The state government’s consistent commitment to vernacular education.
d) Support from the existing Penang SJKT Special Committee, which actively monitors Tamil education development.
Kumaran also noted that the proposed school aligns fully with the MADANI vision, emphasising inclusive education, social justice, and equal opportunities for all Malaysian children.
“Specifically, in the Bagan Dalam constituency, a land has already been allocated for the Tamil school.
“The site is strategically located, easily accessible, and suitable to serve as a pilot project for Malaysia’s first Tamil secondary school, SMT Bagan Dalam.
“If realised, the initiative will benefit Penang and serve as a national model, opening a new chapter for vernacular secondary education in Malaysia,” he added.
Apart from that, Kumaran also proposed that the state government submit an official application to the Ministry of Education for Malaysia’s first Tamil secondary school.
He suggested that the Penang State Education Department, Seberang Perai City Council (MBSP) and SJKT Special Committee conduct feasibility studies covering student needs, projected enrolment, curriculum, teaching staff, and TVET/STEM requirements.
Kumaran further recommended initiating early discussions with the Ministry regarding school modules, administrative structure, and infrastructure requirements.
Apart from that, Kumaran said that building an SMT is not merely about constructing a building, but a strategic initiative to improve student achievement, reduce transition gaps, create future opportunities, and strengthen cultural identity in line with the principles of Malaysia MADANI.
“Penang has the potential to make history, and Bagan Dalam is ready to serve as the pioneering location for Malaysia’s first Tamil secondary school,” he added.
Story by Tanushalini Moroter
Pix by Alissala Thian