CRITICISM OVER POLICY Swings
The DLP’s apparent reset is not the first for change in policy regarding the language of teaching used in schools.
In 2003, the next PM, Mahathir Mohamad, introduced the use of English for teaching mathematics and science, amid fears about Malay ‘ poor standard of English.
By 2012, the next education minister, Muhyiddin Yassin, abandoned the trial owing to a shortage of teachers qualified to teach in English. Additionally, there was concern that children ‘ understanding of the national language may be hampered by English’s dominance.
With the DLP, this was reversed. Out of around 10, 000 national institutions, a quarter— mainly in Sarawak — have adopted the program. ” Sarawak knows the importance of the DLP”, said Noor Azimah.
However, only 8.4 % of major schools in the island and Sabah offered it in the previous year. ” And in most situations, only one school”, she added. ” To me, that’s a fail on the part of the government”.