The solution becomes a problem for English proficiency

I REFER to “English not to be denied” ( The Star, March 21). Everybody knows the “problem” and everybody knows the “solution”. Ironically, the solution becomes the problem.

The problem seeks a solution but more problems emanate. There is a saying: “Don’t trouble trouble as trouble will trouble you!” Since those in power don’t want to be troubled they choose not to offer the solution.

They know the solution but the solution will trouble them. So it is best certain problems are left without a solution.

Parents are worried their children will have problems with English. They know the solution but the solution causes them problems. Money is needed for tuition. But there is no guarantee the solution will not be a problem.

Teachers know the problem and the solution. But the teachers themselves are the problem and not the solution as they are weak in English.

Teachers with good English also have a problem with students who are weak in English. What they say in English is Greek to the students.

Students with good English have problems in school. They seek to speak English but few teachers can speak good English with them. And very few of their friends speak good English.

In the end English becomes a problem and not a solution as their friends will say the English speakers are unpatriotic.

So how do we improve English proficiency? The Englishman will tell you keep singing Aesop’s Fables’ “London Bridge”. HASSAN TALIB, Gombak, Selangor.