The Dual Language Programme announced by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak last October raised fears of a reintroduction of the scrapped policy to teach mathematics and science in English (PPSMI).

What is the DLP?

DLP is a pilot project by the Education Ministry to strengthen command of the English language under the existing policy to strengthen English and uphold Bahasa Malaysia.

Does it affect all national schools?

The pilot project only involves 300 schools, which are given the option to teach science and mathematics in English.

Does it affect all students?

The pilot project is only for Standard 1, Standard 4 and Form 1 students at the selected schools.

Is DLP only for science and mathematics?

Yes, for the pilot project. Following the pilot, schools can also opt to teach information and communication technology and design subjects in English.

What is the objective of DLP?

The ministry says with more exposure to English, students will be able to grasp the language better and will do better in the job market.

Do all schools have to participate in DLP?

Schools can choose if they want to participate. Those interested and are qualified need to apply to their district education officers.

What are the requirements?

A school must have enough teaching resources (books, teaching material etc), teachers who are willing to implement DLP.

Written parental consent and support is required, as is the cooperation of the district education office.

The school’s performance in Bahasa Malaysia must also meet average national performance levels.

How will it be implemented?

Each class must have at least 15 students, without the need to reduce/add the number of classes. The class will be taught science and mathematics subjects in English.

How will the students be assessed?

All public examinations for science and mathematics subjects will be available in Bahasa Malaysia or English starting 2016. Students will be tested according to the language they learn in.

Can there be exceptions?

Schools uninterested to participate were required to inform the ministry and state education director by Dec 8 last year.

Why is there opposition to the DLP?

Critics see it as a reintroduction of the much opposed policy to teach mathematics and science in English, scrapped in 2012.

Who are the critics?

Gerakan Mansuh PPSMI (GMP) is the umbrella body representing the critics, made up of writers’ associations, political parties Amanah and PAS, academics, national laureates and civil society members.

Check out our FAQ cards. Click on the flipcard below for answers to the questions.

 

 

KiniGuide is a simple FAQ to help Malaysians understand current issues better. This guide was prepared by Al-Abror Mohd Yusuf.

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