It will remain as a part of the literature component for the Bahasa Melayu subject in secondary schools, said Education Ministry deputy director-general Khairil Awang.

“A special panel has decided the novel contains its relevant learning elements.

“Students can learn to appreciate the beauty of the language, vocabulary and grammar.

“It can also stimulate students to think maturely and justify rationally,” he told reporters at a press conference.

Khairil said the decision was made after discussions with the Revision Committee set up by the ministry recently.

“The Education Ministry set up a committee made up of professionals from different backgrounds such as education, religion, psychology, counselling and anthropology.

“Committee members decided unanimously that ‘Pantai Kasih’, written by Azmah Nordin, can be used by Form Four students in Zone Three areas involving Malacca, Pahang, Kelantan, and Terengganu.”

The novel centres on the lives of wealthy doctors and nurses. It became the focus of public attention after alleged lewd excerpts went viral in social media.

Khairil pointed out that the novel was also used by students last year and that they had no problems then.

“The student edition is different from the general edition. There is already a committee that is looking into and editing content in the novel to suit Form Four students.”

He hoped the general public would value the novel as a whole instead of only basing it on several excerpts.

“As a whole, the novel portrays a women’s perseverance and ethics.”