JOHOR BARU: The proficiency of the Malay language among students from vernacular schools nationwide has improved over the years, says Datuk Dr Mah Hang Soon.

The Deputy Education Minister said it was important for students from SJKC and SJKT to master the Malay language in order to perform well in their studies once they enter secondary school.

"In general, the proficiency of the Malay language (among SJKT and SJKC students) has gotten so much better compared to previously.

"However, there is still room for improvement and we need to continue assisting students to ensure that they can master the language further," he said.

He said this to the press when met after officiating the closing ceremony of the 39th Prime Minister SJKT and SJKC Malay Language Public Speaking and Essay Writing Unity Trophy in a hotel here in Senai, Johor.

He noted that parents also play an important role in ensuring that their children could improve their command of the language better.

"This (learning the Malay language) is a continuous process that should not only take place in schools but also at home and among the community," he said.

-The STAR-