The Vision of Arif Budiman: A Case Study of Malay Language Education in Singapore

Abstract

This study attempts to assess the Malay language education in Singapore by focusing on its vision, Arif Budiman. This vision mooted in 2005 by the Malay Language Curriculum and Pedagogy Review Committee (MLCPRC), aims to provide the direction for Malay language education, with specific aims delineated for primary, secondary and pre-university (junior college) Malay language education. The vision of Arif Budiman, attempts to produce cultured and learned persons who can contribute to society through Malay language education in schools. By analyzing the primary objective of Arif Budiman mentioned above, it clearly implies that culture and language have been identified as the two main components in Malay language education. This study hopes to look into the issues that affect the realization of the vision of Arif Budiman by analyzing two factors that have impacted this vision; narrow definition of culture and the lack of critical approach towards the understanding of culture.