Gerakan has begun to consider ways of addressing problems in timetable which is expected to occur when the current Standard One pupils in Chinese schools enter Standard Four.

Party president Dr Lim Keng Yaik said there would be problems accommodating the 2-4-3 formula because the number of subject periods had been extended to the maximum 50.

"We would consult other Barisan Nasional component parties (on this)," he told reporters at the end of the party's 32nd national delegates conference held in Kuala Lumpur today.

"The number of periods has been increased from 45 to 50 per week, and we have maximised the period. We cannot add anymore," he said.

The 2-4-3 formula refers to the allocation of two periods for English, four for Maths and three for Science following the use of English in the teaching of Maths and Science in Standard One beginning this year.

Two years for solution

Lim said the adjustments would have to be made because new subjects would be introduced in Standard Four.

He said BN components had two more years to work out a solution as the first batch using the 2-4-3 formula would only enter Standard Four in 2006.

"We know certain people are worried, but we have two years to work on it," he said.

Asked on the fears of Chinese educationists that come 2008, there might not be anymore bilingual examination papers for Science and Maths, Lim said: "We will cross the bridge when we come to it."

Meanwhile, in his presidential winding-up speech, Lim called on Malaysians to undergo a mental revolution on matters related to race.

He said Gerakan would try its best to change the people's mindset to ensure solid support for the Bangsa Malaysia concept and Vision 2020.