By Karen Bong
SIBU, July 11: Sarawak’s bold and unique approach to education, including the use of English for mathematics and science, establishment of international schools and free tertiary education, has proven to be the right direction despite facing criticism.
Deputy Minister of Education and Innovation Datuk Dr Annuar Rapaee emphasised that Sarawak had taken long-term measures to ensure future generations received quality education.
He said the State’s education policies were not designed merely for short-term gains but aimed at preparing Sarawakian children for future challenges.
“Seven years ago, the Premier agreed to ensure that our students use English for the teaching of mathematics and science.
“No other state has taken this step because it requires capacity and commitment, but Sarawak made this bold decision,” he said when speaking at the Sarawakku Sayang programme at Tun Tuanku Bujang Square, which was officiated by Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg today.
Dr Annuar, who is also Nangka assemblyman, acknowledged that the policy had attracted criticism, particularly regarding the use of English in schools, but stressed that the outcome showed the decision was justified.
He cited the achievement of a student from Methodist School Sibu who emerged as the best student in the country for her subject in this year’s SPM and STPM examinations as evidence that Sarawak’s education approach was effective.
“Although we were accused of not prioritising Bahasa Melayu, our student achieved the best result. This shows that while we embrace English, we have never neglected the importance of Bahasa Melayu or Bahasa Malaysia,” he said.
Dr Annuar said Sarawak’s decision to provide free tertiary education was another groundbreaking initiative that had benefited students regardless of background.
“As a Sarawakian, I am very proud because we are the first region and one of the few places in the world that can offer free tertiary education to our children,” he said.
He added that the initiative would ensure students from all backgrounds could pursue higher education without being restricted by financial limitations.
Dr Annuar also highlighted that Sarawak was the only state in Malaysia where the State government had established international schools, unlike other places where such schools were mainly privately operated.
He said this initiative provided opportunities for children from rural areas and B40 low income families who might otherwise not have access to international-level education.
“Education is the most important investment. We will never get it wrong if we invest in education,” he said.
Dr Annuar said the State’s education policies reflected the importance placed by the Sarawak government on developing human capital for the future. — DayakDaily
