Education, Innovation and Talent Development Deputy Minister Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee
KUCHING (Dec 10): Sarawak remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding Bahasa Malaysia (BM) and English in its education system, says Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee.
The Deputy Minister of Education, Innovation and Talent Development said Sarawak acknowledges the respective roles of both languages in fostering national unity and global competitiveness.
Responding to a recent issue regarding the matter, he said Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg’s remarks about the state’s free tertiary education plan had been ‘misconstrued’ by certain parties.
“I heard what he (Abang Johari) said. He said that by 2026, Sarawak would provide free education to all Sarawakians regardless of socio-economic background, or whether they have a credit in Bahasa Malaysia at the SPM (Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia) level.
“This has no bearing on university entry requirements,” said Dr Annuar in his keynote address at the ‘Dual Language Programme (DLP) Sarawak Intervention’ event here today.
Adding on, he emphasised that private universities in Sarawak such as Swinburne University of Technology do not mandate a credit in Bahasa Malaysia for admission.
However, he acknowledged that certain private institutions do require students to undertake Malay Language modules in their studies, in the event that they lack the qualification.
On a related matter, Dr Annuar reiterated Sarawak’s unique position in implementing full DLP in schools across the state.
“Unlike in Peninsular Malaysia, all schools in Sarawak are mandated to participate (in DLP), underscoring the state’s focus on strengthening student’s proficiency in English alongside Bahasa Malaysia.
“Our aim is to produce students proficient in both languages, with a strong foundation in science and technology for the betterment of the country.”
Dr Annuar also highlighted various challenges faced by schools in Sarawak, including outdated infrastructure and inadequate internet connectivity despite advancements such as Starlink.
Additionally, he urged all educators and stakeholders to voice out their needs and concerns, while underlining the importance of collaboration to improve educational outcomes.
He also outlined targets to enhance Sarawak’s education standards, aimed at matching the national average within five years, and being ranked among the top five states in 10 years.
“A key focus is the RM20 million allocated by the state government for education interventions, which I vow to utilise effectively. We need full commitment from everyone.
“This workshop is crucial for addressing shortcomings in the DLP and ensuring its success. The English for Specific Purposes (ESP) training for teachers and students is important.”
On the language matter highlighted earlier, Dr Annuar underscored the state’s dedication to national unity through Bahasa Malaysia, but also highlighted Sarawak’s model of harmony as testament to the state’s balanced approach.
“Sarawak has long emphasised the importance of Bahasa Malaysia for unity, yet we have also embraced English to move forward.
“This balance is key to our success.”
The event concluded with a call for actionable solutions to advance the DLP and other educational initiatives in Sarawak.