Lim Guan Eng, Chairman of the Democratic Action Party (DAP), has raised concerns about the implementation of the new Dual Language Programme (DLP) guidelines by the Ministry of Education. He questioned why prestigious institutions like Malay College Kuala Kangsar (MCKK) and Tunku Kurshiah College are seemingly exempt from these regulations, while other schools are required to comply.
According to Clause 12.2.8 of the new DLP guidelines, Year One and Form One classes must include at least one non-DLP class where mathematics and science are taught in Bahasa Melayu, regardless of parents' preferences. Lim highlighted a recent statement by education advocate Noor Azimah Rahim, who asserted that elite schools such as MCKK and Tunku Kurshiah College are not adhering to this rule.
“To date, the Ministry of Education has not confirmed or denied Azimah's claims regarding these elite schools,” Lim said in a public statement. He further noted that Azimah had pointed out an interesting exception in the new guidelines: they do not apply to Sarawak. Since 2020, all primary schools in Sarawak have been allowed to conduct DLP in full, meaning that all science and mathematics classes are taught in English.
Noor Azimah Rahim, who chairs the Parent Action Group for Education Malaysia, also mentioned that the ministry does not plan to provide additional funds for the DLP in other states, as reported in April.
Lim questioned if schools in Peninsular Malaysia could similarly request exemptions from the new DLP rule. He emphasized the need for fairness and consistency in the application of educational policies. “Fair play and a level playing field can only lead to rational and logical conclusions,” he remarked.
Lim expressed surprise at the elite schools' defiance of the ministry’s directive, particularly in light of the financial support granted to Sarawak. “Most would not object to the Ministry of Education allocating RM18 million to Sarawak to run DLP classes in English for science and mathematics,” he stated. “What is surprising is that two elite schools in Peninsular Malaysia, known for producing leaders in the government and corporate sectors, intend to disregard the latest directive from the ministry.”
Lim's comments underscore the ongoing debate about educational equity and consistency in Malaysia. As the issue unfolds, many are looking to the Ministry of Education for clarity and a reaffirmation of its commitment to equitable educational practices across the country.
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