Examining the role of the English literature component in the Malaysian English curriculum

• Main Authors: Karpal Singh, Paramjit Kaur, Mahmor, Noor Aida
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 2014
• Subjects: LB2361 Curriculum; PE English
• Online Access: http://repo.uum.edu.my/12241/1/1-e.pdf; http://repo.uum.edu.my/12241/; http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.sbspro.2014.04.229
• Institution: Universiti Utara Malaysia

This paper examines the role and the position of the English Literature component in the current Malaysian English curriculum.A brief historical overview of the role and the position of English literature in the Malaysian curriculum will be provided. English literature has been through volatile changes throughout the years and is often seen to play a secondary role to help increase English proficiency of students.In the preliminary National Education Blueprint (2013 – 2025), once again English literature is juxtaposed as a tool to help increase English proficiency.Given the many revamps the curriculum in Malaysia has undergone, this paper argues that there is a general state of ambivalence towards the role and position of English Literature in the curriculum.This paper proposes that English Literature as a subject should be reconceptualised given its potential to help educate and prepare young Malaysians for the impact of globalization and the vibrant changes and challenges in the Malaysian political and social context.Literature should no longer be considered merely as a tool to increase English proficiency; it should serve as a bridge to educate young Malaysians about their rich literary traditions, heritage and culture.