In a significant shift in educational policy, Sarawak will begin teaching Mathematics and Science subjects in English starting in 2026.
This move, announced by the state’s Minister of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development, Dato' Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn, aims to enhance the proficiency of students in English, aligning with global standards. This change will be implemented in stages, beginning with Form 1 students who will have already completed their primary education with English as the medium of instruction.
Details of the Implementation
The subjects to be taught in English include Mathematics, Additional Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The initiative has received approval from the federal education ministry, with formal circulars and regulations currently being developed to ensure smooth execution and consistency. This policy shift reflects Sarawak’s commitment to providing its students with a competitive edge in a globalized economy, where English is often the dominant language in business, science, and technology.
Reintroduction of Standardized Assessments
In addition to the medium of instruction change, Sarawak will reintroduce assessments for Year 6 and Form 3 students. These assessments, set to commence in 2025 for Year 6 and 2028 for Form 3, will cover English, Mathematics, and Science. This decision marks a departure from the federal policy, which scrapped the UPSR and PT3 examinations in 2021 and 2022, respectively. Minister Sagah emphasized that the abolition of these standardized tests did not suit Sarawak’s educational needs. The reintroduced assessments aim to maintain educational standards and better prepare students for future academic and professional challenges.
Reactions and Implications
The move has been met with various reactions. The Parent Action Group for Education (PAGE) has expressed concerns about Peninsular Malaysia falling behind if similar measures are not adopted. PAGE chairman Noor Azimah Rahim criticized the current policy mandating a non-Dual Language Programme (DLP) class, arguing that it stifles educational progress and limits access to bilingual education.
She emphasized that Sarawak's proactive stance should serve as a wake-up call for other states, highlighting the importance of teaching science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) in English for student success.
She pointed out that English is the international language of business, science, and technology, making it crucial for students to be well-prepared for a globalized economy.
Azimah warned that without similar initiatives, other states risk lagging in attracting global business and promoting innovation.
Broader Educational Context
The current inconsistent Dual Language Programme (DLP) was introduced in 2016 to give schools the option to teach Mathematics and Science in either English or Bahasa Melayu. However, inconsistent language policies have led to graduates with inadequate English skills, affecting their job prospects.
Critics like Sharifah Munirah Alatas of the Malaysian Academic Movement have called for a definitive and consistent policy regarding the medium of instruction for these critical subjects.
Economic and Developmental Considerations
The strategic shift in Sarawak’s educational policy aligns with its broader developmental goals. Economist Madeline Berma emphasized that fluency in both English and Bahasa Melayu is crucial for fully engaging with and contributing to the state’s development initiatives, such as its green hydrogen venture. The move is seen as essential for fostering global competitiveness and ensuring that students are well-prepared for both academic and professional environments.
Conclusion
Sarawak's decision to teach Mathematics and Science in English from 2026, along with the reintroduction of standardized assessments, signifies a bold step towards enhancing educational standards and preparing students for global challenges. This proactive approach could serve as a model for other states in Malaysia, highlighting the importance of English proficiency in today's interconnected world.
By: Kpost
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