What is Pengajian Am?

Author
Walter Tay
3 min read·September 9, 2024

Introduction

Pengajian Am (General Studies) is a mandatory subject for all STPM (Malaysian Higher School Certificate) students in Malaysia. It is considered one of the most challenging subjects in the STPM curriculum. This guide provides an overview of the subject, breaking it down into its three main semesters.

Semester 1: Sovereignty of Malaysia and the Federal Constitution

1. Kemahiran Belajar (General Learning Ability)

This section covers general critical thinking and learning skills, which are essential for students to excel in their studies.

2. Malaysia Kekal Berdaulat (Sovereignty of Malaysia)

  • Sovereign Country (Negara berdaulat): Students learn about the concept and characteristics of a sovereign country, including its borders, system of government, and population.
  • Federal Constitution (Perlembagaan Persekutuan): This topic covers the provisions, system, and structure of the Federal Constitution, emphasizing the roles and powers of the executive, legislative, and judiciary branches.
  • National Administration (Tadbir urus negara): Students explore the system and structure of both Federal and State Governments, including the importance and challenges of good governance.
  • Sovereignty of Malaysia (Kedaulatan Malaysia): This section discusses the importance of national and international security, the challenges faced by the country, and ways to overcome these challenges.

Semester 2: Malaysia's Developmental Policies

3. Transformation of Communication Forms (Alih Bentuk Komunikasi)

  • Linear to Non-linear: Students learn to convert data and information into non-linear texts such as tables, graphs, charts, and diagrams.

4. Prosperous and Developed Malaysia (Malaysia Maju Dan Sejahtera)

  • Indicators of a Prosperous and Developed Country: This topic covers various indicators such as religion, economy, politics, infrastructure, social and culture, ecology, and science and technology.
  • Ideology, Vision, and Foundation of Malaysia's Development: Students study the National Principles (Rukun Negara), Vision 2020, and other national development policies.
  • Challenges and Solutions: This section discusses the challenges in national development and the steps to address them.

5. Project Work (Kerja Kursus)

Students apply their learning skills to produce an original and high-quality written assignment and present their results orally.

Semester 3: Malaysia's Relationship with the Rest of the World

6. Transformation of Communication Forms (Alih Bentuk Komunikasi)

  • Non-linear to Linear: Students analyze data and facts, perform calculations, and apply these skills in subsequent topics.

7. Malaysia and the Outside World (Malaysia Dan Negara Luar)

  • Diplomatic Relations and Foreign Policy: This topic covers the factors influencing Malaysia's foreign policy, the importance of regional and international relations, and Malaysia's role and contributions at both levels.
  • Issues and Challenges: Students discuss national and international issues and challenges, evaluate Malaysia's actions in addressing these issues, and interpret non-linear texts into linear forms.

Conclusion

Pengajian Am is a comprehensive subject that equips STPM students with critical knowledge about Malaysia's governance, development, and international relations. By understanding these topics, students are better prepared to contribute to the nation's progress and address future challenges.

For more detailed information, refer to the specific semester guides: