KUCHING: Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah supports the adoption of English as the medium of instruction for Mathematics, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Additional Mathematics at the secondary school level in Sarawak.
The Tourism, Creative Industry, and Performing Arts Minister said the way the education system manages the syllabus regarding language use has led to many graduates from local universities lacking proficiency in English.
“With due respect, I’m not undermining our local universities or individuals who have pursued advanced degrees like Masters or PhDs. However, we must acknowledge the importance of international languages, particularly for trade and business purposes.
“And English is an international language. When interacting with counterparts outside Malaysia, relying solely on Malay may not suffice.
“There needs to be a common ground for communication. This is why languages like English, French, and Mandarin, among others, are consistently encouraged,” he said during a press conference at the Sarawak State Legislative Assembly (DUN) complex here yesterday.
He was responding to Education, Innovation, and Talent Development Minister Datuk Seri Roland Sagah Wee Inn’s view that English should be the medium for STEM subjects.
Abdul Karim also acknowledged the potential challenge since these subjects are currently taught in Malay.
He also called for a re-evaluation as teachers trained under the current syllabus must be capable of teaching STEM subjects in English.
“Alternatively, graduates from teachers’ colleges may need additional training to become proficient in English for teaching these subjects,” he added.
Earlier, Sagah had clarified that English as the medium of instruction for STEM subjects in secondary schools will commence with the first group in 2026. This transition will extend to pure science subjects in 2029 for eligible students.
