This inaugural issue of the Tamil Education Journal highlights the ongoing struggle for the recognition and rights of Tamil schools in Malaysia. It features articles by scholars and activists exploring various aspects of Tamil education, including its history, challenges, and importance for the Tamil community.
மலேசியாவில் தமிழ்க்கல்வி ஓர் அறிமுகம்
இவ்விதழில் தமிழ்க் கல்வியின் வரலாறு, போராட்டம் உட்பட பல்வேறு அம்சங்களை ஆராயும் அறிஞர்கள் மற்றும் ஆர்வலர்களின் கட்டுரைகள் இடம்பெற்றுள்ளன
Education for Harmony with Surroundings
Exploring language, education, and culture in Malaysia, this journal champions multilingualism and minority language preservation. It delves into the debate surrounding Chinese and Tamil vernacular schools, their legal protection, and their educational role. The journal spotlights the historical and ongoing challenges faced by Indian estate workers, particularly in educating their children.
The Tamil Migration Cycle, 1830 - 1950
This journal dives into the vibrant tapestry of Tamil migration to Malaysia. Analyzing the “Tamil Migration Cycle” fueled by colonialism, it explores their cultural enrichment and identity struggles. The journal emphasizes the struggle to preserve Tamil language and culture amidst economic pressures, ultimately advocating for a balanced approach that supports both mother tongue education and the national language
Commercial - Cultural Relations between India and Southeast Asia - Tracing the Early Tamil Seamen
This journal challenges the push for English-medium education in Malaysia, advocating for mother tongue languages like Tamil. It highlights the historical and cultural significance of Tamil communities in Southeast Asia and argues against cultural assimilation. The journal ultimately calls for a more inclusive and multicultural approach to education in Malaysia
The Plantation System was NOT Autonomous: Classic Case of Captive Labour at State’s Disposal
This article challenges the idea of self-governing plantations in Malaysia, arguing they were heavily influenced by external forces like the state and colonialism. The Tamil press of the 1930s is explored as a window into the Tamil experience, highlighting their fight for land rights, labor reforms, and community growth.
If you don’t understand, how can you learn?
This journal delves into the heated debate surrounding the use of English for teaching Science and Mathematics, particularly in multilingual Malaysia. It opens by raising concerns about children learning in a non-native language.