They are from different backgrounds, but opt for Chinese Studies in poly

The course aims to cultivate bilingual talent, cultural fluency and business connectivity

- Shermaine Ang

Born and raised in a Malay family, Syakirah Dahiyah Sudanto was introduced to Mandarin through an international pre-school which teaches children English and Mandarin.

"My mother thought since I'm speaking English and Malay at home, it would be nice to learn a third language. She thinks it would benefit me in terms of job opportunities and opportunities in life," said the 18-year-old.

Syakirah is the first Malay student to enrol in Chinese Studies in Ngee Ann Polytechnic (NP), where she is in her second year. The course marked its 20th year in August.

The younger of two sisters, she was the first in her family to take Chinese language as her Mother Tongue in primary and secondary school. She enjoyed it so much that she opted to delve into the study of the language and culture in polytechnic.

"I am interested in how mysterious Chinese culture is, like for example stories behind the Lantern Festival," she said.

Another student, Darshnee Abigail Arasu, who started taking the same Chinese Studies diploma course in April, is its first Chinese-Indian student.

Ms Sandra Toh, director of the polytechnic's School of Humanities and Interdisciplinary Studies, said the enrolment of these students reflects the diploma's relevance in training bilingual and bicultural talent.

The hope is that such talent can contribute to Chinese-speaking regions and build connections between Singapore and the region, she added.

NP is the only polytechnic in Singapore that offers Chinese Studies, which covers Chinese history, culture, literature and translation. Most of the course is taught in Mandarin, with 30 per cent in English.