By Wilfred Pilo
KUCHING, Jan 20: Worried that the younger Iban generations are gradually losing proficiency in the language, Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas fears that it may eventually face extinction if no action is taken to formalise it at all levels of education.
He believes that comprehensive teaching programmes developed by Malaysian linguistic experts can enhance proficiency and formalise the future standard of the Iban Language.
In addition, he said such comprehensive development programmes for the Iban language would tackle shortfalls and gaps in qualified teachers in schools and tertiary institutions in the country.
Uggah said this before officiating a four-day workshop entitled ‘Curriculum Development for Bachelor’s in Education in Iban Language Programme’ organised by the Universiti Malaysia Sarawak UNIMAS) at Raia Hotel and Convention Centre today.
He also lamented that teaching the Iban language faces many challenges, and many who taught the subjects in schools offering the subject are not qualified.
Uggah cited that many teachers, especially in rural areas, are assigned to teach Iban without formal qualifications.
“To address this gap and shortfalls, we must implement ongoing training programmes to equip these teachers with the necessary skills and knowledge in language proficiency, effective teaching methodologies, and cultural sensitivity.
“We must prioritise the formalisation of Iban language education at all levels- primary, secondary, and even tertiary,” he said. — DayakDaily
