Expert cites time constraints in teaching after drop in Pisa maths score

Malaysian students' mathematics score in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) declined, according to an expert who cited limited teaching time as the primary issue. Yunus Yasin, president of the Science, Technology and Innovation Association, emphasized that the packed curriculum in Malaysian schools is a significant challenge for mathematics teachers.

He explained that teaching fundamental mathematical concepts requires repeated practice to ensure students fully grasp the material. With an extensive curriculum but insufficient teaching time, the problem becomes apparent. Yunus spoke to FMT, stating that a packed curriculum is manageable if ample time is allocated for practical exercises.

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek reported on Tuesday that Malaysia's Pisa performance in science rose by three points to 419 in 2025, while reading increased by five points to 393, and mathematics fell by 11 points to 397. The triennial survey, conducted by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, measures 15-year-old students' acquisition of essential knowledge and skills necessary for active participation in society.

Yunus highlighted that mathematics serves as the foundation for technology and engineering, and a weak understanding of basic mathematical concepts could adversely affect students' career prospects, particularly in securing high-paying jobs in these sectors. He also called for the education ministry to incentivize and recognize teachers based on their competency and motivation.