Malay Language Elective Programme

Have a passion for Malay language and literature? YIJC is one of the 5 selected Colleges offering the Malay Language Elective Programme (MLEP)!

Our MLEP enables you to attain a higher level of proficiency of the Malay language and a deeper understanding of Malay literature and culture. You will take part in many enrichment activities including seminars, workshops, camps, and immersion trips (local/overseas). Our MLEP also offers insights into career prospects and shows you that what you learn is applicable to different industries. You will be developed to serve as a cultural leader within the Malay community, and promote the Malay language and culture via service to the community. You will also be eligible to apply for the Language Elective Scholarship offered by the Ministry of Education (MOE).

Students who are enrolled in the MLEP at YIJC can look forward to the following activities:

Cross-Cultural Exchange Programme with overseas scholars and students
Creative Writing Workshops
Cultural Appreciation Workshop
MLEP Alive! Programme
Cultural Challenge
Interaction with successful MLEP Alumni at dialogue sessions
Interaction with local writers at dialogue sessions

The above activities are organised by the YIJC Malay Language unit. MLEP participants will have the opportunity to hone their leadership and organisational skills as they plan, prepare, execute, and facilitate the above activities for their peers. The creative writing workshops, cultural appreciation workshop and dialogue sessions with renowned local writers also give these participants a chance to develop greater insights into literary writing as well as to enhance their cultural appreciation and awareness.

As Malay language and culture ambassadors, our MLEP students also play an integral role in promoting cross-cultural awareness amongst their peers. Read on to find out more about one of our recent highlights!

MLEP Alive! Jom Iftar

Annually, the MLEP students will organise MLEP Alive! Programme either during the month of Ramadan or to celebrate Hari Raya Puasa. Jom Iftar conducted during the month of Ramadan provides an opportunity for the non-Malay/Muslim students to experience breaking fast together with the Malay students. Jom Raya on the other hand gives the non-Malay/Muslim students an insight on the festivities during Hari Raya Puasa. As part of both programmes, the MLEP students will also expose their non-Malay peers to other elements of the Malay culture, such as writing in Jawi and also making Hari Raya goodies.

Besides the above programmes, MLEP participants will also have the opportunity to take part in various activities organised by MOE such as the Annual Literary Camp, Annual Overseas Immersion Programme (Virtual in 2020 and 2021 due to COVID-19 and Kuala Lumpur and Ipoh in 2022), Annual Translation Workshop, and dialogue sessions with key figures in the Malay community.