MELAKA: Melaka MCA is happy to see various races attending vernacular schools on the first day of the 2024 schooling session.

       Its chief, Datuk Lim Ban Hong, said he was elated to see the faces of Malay, Kadazan, Bidayuh, and Indian students when he visited SJK (C) Lih Jen in Klebang on Monday (March 11).

       "I was told the diversity of students is the same in other vernacular schools in the state.

       "This is the testimony that vernacular schools are not the cause of racial polarisation," he said.

       Lim said that many assemblymen and members of parliament are products of vernacular schools.

       "These schools, which cater to specific language and cultural backgrounds, play a role in fostering understanding and appreciation among different communities," he said.

       Lim said vernacular schools also offer Malaysian strength by equipping students with proficiency in additional languages.

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       "In a globalised world, where business and communication span international borders, individuals fluent in multiple languages have a distinct advantage," he said.

       Lim said the ability to communicate in various languages enhances Malaysia's competitiveness on the global stage.

       "In a nutshell, vernacular schools play a crucial role in producing a workforce with linguistic diversity, contributing to the country's success in the international arena," he added.