ABSTRACT

This chapter examines the nexus of politics and globalisation within the context of Malaysia's education policies and politics. Globalisation is challenging the government of the day in various ways, bringing about improvements in the delivery system for the people. It is indeed crucial to remain competitive in attracting foreign investment and international visitors in numerous service sectors. Education too has become an important sector in this light of internationalisation and competitiveness that hold political implications. While the population has great expectation on the government of the day to perform, the state often looks for guidance from the government to do what is necessary for the societal advancement of a plural and multi-ethnic society. Each sector of society is being scrutinised in one way or another with a political mindset. Political bargaining and its effect on ethnic interest can sometimes complicate basic educational issues.