The command of the Malay language among Indian students can be improved through appropriate techniques and methods that motivate the students [1]. The low proficiency in Malay among non-Malay students, particularly Indian and Chinese students, is a challenge that is not only faced by Malay language teachers but also by other teachers [2]. A study found that 65.2% of respondents did not master the skills of writing and 39.6% did not know how to read fluently in Malay [3].

Motivation and attitude are crucial factors that drive Indian students to learn Malay as a second language successfully [5]. Another study found that the use of the mother tongue in teaching Malay language to native students in Sarawak schools was effective [4]. However, there is a lack of research on learning strategies in Malay language among Indian students, which presents an opportunity for further study [6].

A recent study found that the use of the mother tongue had a positive impact on the speaking skills of Indian students in a primary school [7]. The Malaysian Education Ministry mandates that non-Malay students must practice using the Malay language in their daily lives as part of efforts to produce Malaysian citizens who are competent in the language [8].

In summary, the proficiency of Malay language among Indian students can be improved through various methods, including motivation, the use of mother tongue in teaching, and consistent practice. However, more research is needed to explore effective learning strategies for Indian students in particular.