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

An expert has warned that Malaysia's declining mathematics performance in the 2025 Programme for International Student Assessment (Pisa) is due to limited teaching time in schools. Yunus Yasin, president of the Science, Technology and Innovation Association, highlighted that the main challenge for mathematics teachers is delivering an extensive curriculum within insufficient time.

He emphasized that mastering basic mathematical concepts demands repeated practice to ensure students fully grasp the material. If the curriculum is too extensive but teaching time is lacking, problems will arise. On the other hand, a packed curriculum does not pose an issue if ample time is allocated for practical exercises, as Yunus explained to FMT.

The education minister, Fadhlina Sidek, reported that while Malaysia's Pisa performance in science improved by three points to 419, mathematics scores dropped by 11 points to 397. Pisa is an annual survey of 15-year-old students that evaluates their grasp of essential knowledge and skills necessary for engaging in society. Yunus stressed that mathematics serves as the foundation for technology and engineering, and inadequate understanding of the subject could hinder students' prospects in securing well-paying jobs in these fields.

He also called on the education ministry to motivate and recognize teachers based on their competence and dedication.