MIC deputy president M Saravanan has raised serious concerns over the declining enrolment in Tamil primary schools across Malaysia, noting that student numbers are falling despite the schools’ strong academic track record.
He cited the latest figures showing that only 10,330 students enrolled in Year One at Tamil schools nationwide for the 2026 academic year - a significant drop of 691 students from the previous year’s intake of 11,021.
Pointing out that MIC cannot reverse this trend alone, the Tapah MP urged Tamil-based NGOs, Parent-Teacher Associations (PTAs), alumni groups, school management boards, and community leaders to take a proactive role.
“Tamil schools are the bedrock of our Malaysian Indian community’s identity and progress. MIC remains committed to defending and advancing these institutions, but we cannot do it alone.
“We must move from a mindset of ‘maintenance mode’ to ‘strategic advocacy,’” he emphasised.
Saravanan also underscored the critical influence of parental choices on enrollment patterns.
“I urge parents to recognise the long-term value of Tamil education and to actively support these schools by enrolling their children in them.
“This is not just about numbers. It’s about preserving our language, culture, and community strength. The future of Tamil schools depends on our collective will to act,” he added.
As of 2025, Malaysia has 528 Tamil primary schools, with roughly 155 schools operating with 30 students or fewer, highlighting the urgency of concerted action to safeguard these institutions. - Mkini
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