The MOE promotes the Jawi (Arabic script) component in Malay language lessons for primary schools, a topic of occasional public debate regarding cultural integration.
Public schools cost almost nothing (RM 10–50/year). Even private and international schools are cheaper than in the US/UK. Quality varies, but a decent education is available to almost everyone.
The canteen is a war zone of delicious, cheap food: nasi lemak , mi goreng , karipap , and sweet Milo drinks. Social cliques form here—not just by race, but by whether you are in the "Science stream" (smart kids) or "Arts stream."