SERIAN: The Education, Science and Technological Research Minister has dismissed fears by certain quarters that their children would face difficulty in learning science and mathematics should it be taught in English starting next year.
Datuk Seri Michael Manyin Jawong instead appealed to parents in Sarawak to fully back the proposal, which would be implemented in primary schools in the state starting next year.
He urged them, especially the sceptical ones, to look at the long-term benefits of the proposal.
Manyin told a leader-meet-the-people session at Awah Gawai Kampung Pichin on Sunday that in the early days of Sarawak, the pupils also did not know English when they first attended school.
“But very soon, the pupils could pick up the language,” he added.
He expressed confidence that the present generation could also do the same.
The state government has agreed to be the first state to implement the proposal following a meeting between Chief Minister Datuk Patinggi Abang Johari Tun Openg and federal Education Minister Dr Maszlee Malik on April 24.
Manyin said the proposal was actually a programme and not a policy.
“As such, the state government will not enforce it if there’s a strong refusal from parents. However, due to its long-term benefits, the state government is adamant in implementing it,” he added.
Earlier, Manyin officiated at the opening of newly-upgraded Trinitas Kudus Catholic Church Pichin building.
Accompanied by his wife Datin Seri Mary, several Bidayuh assemblymen including Datuk Henry Harry Jinep (Tasik Biru), John Ilus (Bukit Semuja) and Martin Ben (Kedup), the minister later joined the congregation for a Sunday Mass at the church.
