BRIDGING TRADITION AND INNOVATION: RETHINKING MUSIC EDUCATION FOR MALAYSIA’S PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Abstract

Using traditional versus innovative teaching perspective, this study explores the challenges and opportunities in implementing music education within primary schools in Malaysia. Using a qualitative research design, the study used a structured interview guide to conduct interviews with five experts in music education based on their years of teaching music and educational design, curriculum, and theory. The results highlight three main obstacles: (1) the low number of qualified music teachers, especially in rural areas, (2) the lack of budget allocation and support for music programs, and (3) the less incorporation of technological tools in music education. The study has revealed an effective approach to blend traditional running in parallel with modern findings of music education system such as integrating of Malaysian folk music with contemporary styles, practices of movement-based learning techniques, and technology abstraction of music education. Educational experts called for teacher training programs, funding for music supplies, and a curriculum that reflects a balance between safeguarding cultural heritage and the adoption of technology innovation. Such research has immense potential to supplement the discourse around music education reforms in Malaysia with empirical data to facilitate effective policy design and implementation.