The arabic language level of candidates for malaysia religion high certificate (MRHC): Reading and grammar

Abstract

Malaysia Religion High Certificate (STAM) examination is a Malaysian student’s eligibility to study in the Middle East. STAM was introduced in 2000 as a result of a Memorandum of Understanding Cultural Agreement between the Governments of Malaysia and the Arab Republic of Egypt in November 1999. But many STAM graduates who took the language test at the university had failed to get the level of qualification and had to take Arabic classes at the language center before pursuing studies at the undergraduate level. This study aims to identify the level of text reading in Arabic among STAM candidates and Arabic grammar skills. Therefore, the researchers aim of 52 students who is a STAM candidate to participate in this study. The approach used in this study is quantitative; wherein the information gathered is presented in the Figures. Data collection using a measurement tool based on the study of texts authored by Sheikh Yusuf al-Qaradawi containing 448 words. Comprehension and grammar skills tests were done for collecting data and then presented into numbers. The findings showed that the respondents' reading and grammar level are moderate. Therefore, it is recommended that students who will take the STAM are given proper guidance so that they can improve their Arabic language proficiency before pursuing studies at tertiary institutions.