In recent years, more Malaysian parents have been enrolling their children in Chinese primary schools (SJKC), even if they aren’t Chinese.
According to data from the Ministry of Education, enrolment in SJKC has steadily increased while national schools (SK) have seen a slower growth rate. But what’s behind this shift?
A Malaysian teacher recently took to Threads to share her thoughts, and her post has since gone viral sparking plenty of debate among parents and teachers alike.
SJKC focuses more on learning, less on “extras”
She began by highlighting one key difference: focus.
One reason is that SJKC focuses on studying and discipline. Teachers don’t try to do everything all at once. They can concentrate on teaching rather than being swamped with endless programs,” she wrote.
In contrast, she said, national schools often spread themselves thin.
In SK, there’s always something going on; sports, competitions, decorating toilets, anti-drug campaigns, endless murals. Teachers without art talent are sometimes forced to paint murals, leading to stress and messy results,” she explained.
This, she argued, takes valuable time and attention away from actual learning.
Cleaner schools, better facilities, more parental support
Moving on, the teacher also pointed out that SJKC facilities often look better maintained because funds are used more efficiently.
“No unnecessary spending on fancy events or banners. Parents in SJKC are generous when it comes to education and welfare, so PIBG funds are often very high. Spending is focused on upgrading classrooms to be comfortable and practical for learning,” she said.
On top of that, celebrations and programs in SJKC are kept short and simple so that classes can resume quickly instead of dragging on for days.
“Parents are very involved”
Her post struck a chord with many netizens who shared similar experiences. Several said that SJKC parents play an active role in making things run smoothly.
“In SJKC, parents form volunteer groups every year. They pick which programs to help with, so teachers can focus on teaching. PIBG even raises its own funds instead of relying on government help. My kid’s SJKC PIBG fund reached RM1.3 million this year!” one netizen commented.
Another added:
“When I was in SJKC, Teacher’s Day and Children’s Day celebrations were only until recess time. After that, we continued lessons as usual. The learning culture was very different compared to SMK.”
Programs kept practical & objective-oriented
Interestingly, the teacher noted that SJKC doesn’t lack programs – it’s the way they handle them that makes the difference.
While SJKC still organises Merdeka Month, Anti-Bullying Campaigns, STEM Week, Sports Day, and festive celebrations, netizens said the implementation is simple, efficient, and focused on results rather than appearances.
“No unnecessary decorations or grand events. The main goal of each program is achieved without wasting funds,” one commenter wrote.
Some even pointed out that SJKC students have monthly exams and extra classes as early as Standard 5, while SK schools are sometimes reluctant to hold frequent tests.
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