By Shikin Louis
KUCHING, Nov 17: The push to reintroduce Bible studies in Sarawak’s primary schools is unlikely to gain traction unless Christian assemblymen actively voice their support, says political analyst Prof Datuk Dr Jayum Jawan.
He noted that the social media recently went abuzz after Bukit Semuja assemblyman John Ilus suggested the idea during the Sarawak Budget 2025 debate session in the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUS) sitting on Nov 14.
Bible studies were part of the school subjects in schools that were under the Sarawak Junior Certificate and Senior Cambridge syllabus and examination systems. It was a subject that was open for all students to choose from.
“It is unfortunate that the idea did not resonate among the many Christian assemblymen, but is well received among netizens who viewed it as good for Christian students as well as allowing non-Christian students to learn about the religion of their compatriots.
“However, this idea may be slow to pick up if it ever will when Christian assemblymen remain mum,” Jayum said in a statement.
He also said while the idea was a healthy call, John may risk the wrath of other Dayaks of Pesaka wing and especially the Bumiputera wing within Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB), for trying to be a champion and undermine the leadership of the more passive Pesaka Dayak.
According to Jayum, there is no need to involve Sarawak’s Ministry of Education, Innovation, and Talent Development (MEITD) to place Bible studies on the official school curriculum.
He argued that doing so could unnecessarily politicise the issue, creating opportunities for controversy.
“The Christian institutions such as the Methodist, Catholic, and Anglican missions could take it upon themselves to provide this lesson through after-school Bible classes.
“Furthermore, most churches already have Sunday Bible classes. The latter could be expanded, and still provide good Bible education to their members and their members’ children.
“Hence, mission accomplished without involving a third party that may be unsympathetic,” he voiced out. — DayakDaily
