Mother Tongue

Our Belief

At the heart of our Mother Tongue Languages Department are three dynamic language units — Chinese, Malay, and Tamil — each dedicated to nurturing a love for language and culture in our students. We also offer Higher Mother Tongue Languages for students eager to deepen their proficiency and appreciation of their heritage. We believe every language carries the heartbeat of a culture, and that every language tells a story — one that connects us to our roots, our families, and our community. Through a rich and authentic curriculum, we bring languages to life beyond the classroom walls. We seek to instill in our students not only linguistic mastery but also a deep sense of identity and pride, nurturing individuals who are confident, expressive, and proud of who they are.

Our Approach

Our Mother Tongue Languages Department takes a holistic and immersive approach to language learning, going beyond textbook instruction to create meaningful, relevant, and enjoyable experiences for students. Through interactive lessons, storytelling, cultural celebrations, and real-world encounters, we ensure that language learning is deeply connected to students lived experiences and cultural identities.

We see language as a bridge - connecting students to their roots, their community, and the wider world. Our Chinese, Malay, and Tamil units each design programmes that are culturally rich and pedagogically sound, blending traditional heritage with contemporary tools such as technology and the arts. This includes the use of Generative AI, digital platforms, and creative media to engage students in new and exciting ways.

Bilingualism is at the core of our approach. By embracing both English and their Mother Tongue, students develop the linguistic agility and cultural confidence to navigate an increasingly interconnected world. We aim for students not just to learn their Mother Tongue - but to truly live it.

Our Stretch Opportunities

Cultural Celebrations and Immersive Experiences

The Mother Tongue Languages Department brings culture to life through a series of vibrant celebrations and immersive experiences across all three language units. Our students immersing themselves in cultural practices during the annual Chinese New Year, Hari Raya and Pongal celebrations, as well as the respective Chinese, Malay and Indian Cultural Day, gaining first-hand appreciation for the dynamic interplay between tradition and modernity. These events provide students with meaningful opportunities to connect with their heritage in an engaging and celebratory setting. The cultural setting provides opportunities for students to dive deeper into exploration of their culture, eventually leading students to embar on a more active appreciation of their mother tongue language.

Mother Tongue Cultural Day

A highlight in the department's calendar, MTL Cultural Day offers rich and immersive cultural experiences across all three language units. Through hands-on workshops in disciplines like dikir barat and silat, students discover a deep sense of pride in their identity — expressed through movement, music, and language. Captivating traditional performances such as Oyilattam and Paraiattam never fail to enliven the spirit, while students are also invited to explore the history and cultural significance of traditional instruments. Through hands-on workshops on bamboo slips and Chinese martial arts, students gain a deeper appreciation of Chinese history, values, and traditions. By exploring the origins of Chinese writing and experiencing the discipline and artistry of wushu, students develop a stronger connection to their cultural heritage and identity.

Learning Journeys and Theatre Experiences

Learning does not stop at the classroom door. Through thoughtfully curated learning journeys and theatre experiences, the Mother Tongue Languages Department brings language and culture to life, enabling students to connect classroom learning with authentic, real-world experiences.

Chinese Language students deepen their appreciation of the language and its rich literary heritage through theatre experiences featuring local Chinese productions. By witnessing the expressive power of the language on stage, students gain a greater understanding of Chinese culture while developing a stronger interest in literature, performance, and the arts.

Malay Language students explore Singapore's rich Malay heritage through learning journeys to culturally significant sites such as Kampung Glam. As they discover the district's history, architecture, food, fashion, and arts, students gain valuable insights into how tradition and modernity coexist, strengthening their cultural awareness while sharpening their observation and inquiry skills.

Tamil Language students engage in meaningful cultural experiences through theatre performances and language programmes that celebrate the richness of Tamil heritage. Experiencing the language in a professional theatrical setting enables students to develop a deeper appreciation of Tamil literature, culture, and identity.

Together, these experiences reflect the department's belief that language extends far beyond textbooks. By immersing students in authentic cultural and artistic encounters, we nurture confident communicators who appreciate their heritage, embrace diverse perspectives, and recognise that language is a living expression of culture, identity, and community.

Our Team

Key Personnel

Mr R Azmann A Rahman — HOD, Mother Tongue Languages 

Mdm Ang Ping Ying — Subject Head, Chinese Language 

Dr Chennakesavalu Sheela — Tamil Language Coordinator

Chinese Language Unit

Mdm Goh Yuh Ping — Year Head, Lower Secondary 

Mr Chong Ming Sze 

Ms Jovene Tan

Ms Lim Hui Hung 

Ms Ng Hui Wen 

Ms Ow Hui Mei Wendy 

Mdm Song Weina 

Ms Zhang Yaqi

Mr Zhang Xinwen

Malay Language Unit

Ms Siti Salmiah Bte Amin — Assistant Year Head, Upper Secondary

Mdm Jariah Ramlee

Mr Mohamed Izwan Bin Abdul Manan 

Ms Nurhumairah Bte Mohd Akip 

Mdm Siti Mariah Binte Omar

Tamil Language Unit

Dr Komathy Vayapuri 

Mr B Vinayagam