This article explores the benefits of sending your child to an Independent Middle School in Malaysia, particularly in East Malaysia (Dongma), instead of a more commonly considered international school. It highlights the unique aspects of this education system and its potential advantages.
A Parent's Experience
A father whose daughter attends Jian Guo Independent Middle School reports that his daughter is thriving. She is happy, integrated into her class, and actively participating in school activities, a stark contrast to her previous shy demeanor while studying in Shanghai.
The Undiscovered Gem of Dongma Independent Middle Schools
Many parents send their children to international schools in Malaysia, particularly in West Malaysia, attracted by their facilities and relatively lower costs compared to those in China. However, a lesser-known option is the Independent Middle Schools in Dongma. These schools offer student visas and competitive tuition fees (around 10,000 yuan per year, with approximately $10,000 needed in the first year), making them a more affordable alternative. Most Chinese parents are simply unaware of these options within the Malaysian education system.
The Essence of Malaysian Chinese Education: Independent Middle Schools
Malaysian Chinese education is fundamentally rooted in Independent Middle Schools. Despite limited awareness among parents (with perhaps only half aware of the existence of Independent High Schools), Sabah boasts five such schools accepting foreign students, including top-ranked institutions in East Malaysia. These schools offer unique benefits that are hard to find in other schools, including international ones.
Remembering Mr. Lin Lianyu: The Soul of Malaysian Chinese Education
Mr. Lin Lianyu is considered the soul of the Malaysian Chinese education system. He dedicated his life to it, even facing government opposition and personal hardship. As the President of the Board of Directors (a non-profit responsible for designing curriculum and educational direction), he fiercely opposed the 1961 education reform that sought to replace Mandarin with Malay as the language of instruction.
His unwavering commitment to Chinese education led to Malaysia becoming the only country besides China with a complete Chinese education system. He was deprived of his teaching qualifications and Malaysian citizenship, yet he persevered.
Language and Curriculum in Independent Middle Schools
Independent schools in Malaysia teach in three languages: Chinese, English, and Malay, with Malay having the least emphasis. The English level in Dongma schools is often quite high. For example, students at Chongzheng Middle School can take the UEC exam in English instead of Chinese.
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Course Design: The curriculum is diversified and comprehensive, covering three languages, math, and science (taught in English).
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High School Specialization: In high school, students choose between business and science streams. Science includes chemistry, physics, and biology in English, while business includes accounting, bookkeeping, economics, and business studies – subjects often introduced at the college level.
Cultivating Independence and a Strong Sense of Self
With approximately 80,000 students across 63 Independent High Schools in Malaysia, these institutions cultivate a strong spirit of self-reliance. While these schools are well-known to Malaysians, limited spaces and a preference for local students in West Malaysia create challenges for foreign applicants. Fortunately, Dongma has more availability.
Debunking Misconceptions and the Role of Financial Incentives
Sadly, there are many misconceptions about the education quality in Dongma being spread by people from Xima who are promoting international schools there. The fact that Independent Middle Schools are often excluded from discussions by promoters of international schools is largely due to their affordability, leaving little to no commission for promoters.
Choosing the Right Path: UEC vs. IGCSE
A tutor who has successfully guided students to Tsinghua University recommends the UEC (Unified Examination Certificate) over the IGCSE. IGCSE graduates often need an additional two years of A-Levels, putting them behind UEC graduates in the university application process.
Moral Education: A Cornerstone of Malaysian Education
Moral education is a fundamental aspect of Malaysian basic education. Students attend moral classes almost daily. The moral education textbooks emphasize understanding and respect for different religions in Malaysia. These are available online for free.
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Window effect
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Suggestion
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Way
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Sincere price
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Diligent heart
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Helping hand
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Neutral heart
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Graceful city
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This promotes interfaith harmony in a country with diverse religious beliefs.
School Day and Homework
School days typically run from 7:00 AM to 3:30 PM, with club activities following. Students are not burdened with excessive homework, recognizing that some students grasp concepts quickly and don't require extensive repetition.
Embracing Multilingualism and Cultural Identity
Many ethnic groups in Malaysia, including Malays, send their children to Chinese elementary schools to learn the language and culture. Malaysian Chinese education represents a fight for cultural survival and the preservation of the Chinese language. It stands as a symbol of Chinese identity and a model for multilingual societies. It's a testament to the willfulness and spirit that flourishes in unique circumstances.
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