Muddied waters: the issue of models of English for Malaysian schools

Abstract

"Which model of English should the Malaysian English language teacher emulate and teach? This question has been debated but not seriously addressed in the recent history of Malaysian EL T. The recent changes in the Malaysian Language policy in my view, makes it even more pertinent that we clarify this issue. This paper will attempt to give a perspective on the issue from the point of view of key players in the Ministry of Education and current developments in ELT. The paper will begin by outlining the views and expectations of the different divisions in the Ministry of Education concerning the issue of models of English that should be used in Malaysian schools. The focus of the discussion will centre on spoken and written models of English. This paper will then address some of the challenges and critical issues that arise from the discussion and suggest ways to guide teachers' practice.