Should parents decide the language for Science and Maths classes?

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Parents Should Decide the Language for Science and Mathematics Classes Under the Dual Language Programme

The Dual Language Programme (DLP) for Science and Mathematics should continue to allow parents to decide the medium of instruction for their children without additional conditions, as was the policy under the previous Perikatan Nasional-Barisan Nasional (PN/BN) government. This approach respects parental choice, which is seen as a democratising force in education that best serves student interests, with a majority of parents reportedly favouring English for these subjects. Challenges have emerged in meeting new requirements, particularly for Chinese vernacular schools in Penang.
Upholding Parental Choice in DLP Implementation

DAP chairman Lim Guan Eng has urged the Education Ministry to maintain the existing policy of the PN/BN government regarding the Dual Language Programme (DLP). This policy grants parents the autonomy to choose whether their children are taught Science and Mathematics in English, free from imposed conditions or restrictions. Lim Guan Eng emphasised that respecting parental preferences is crucial for democratising education and aligning it with the best interests of students, noting that most parents prefer English instruction for these subjects.
Challenges with New Ministry Requirements

Recent directives from the Education Ministry have introduced a requirement for schools to offer at least one class in Bahasa Malaysia (BM) before other classes can be taught in English under the DLP. This has presented significant difficulties for school boards and Parent-Teacher Associations, particularly at 11 Chinese vernacular secondary schools in Penang. These institutions are reportedly struggling to find sufficient student enrollment to form a dedicated BM-medium class, a prerequisite for implementing the DLP in English.
Support for Continued Parental Autonomy

The stance advocating for parental choice in the DLP language of instruction has garnered support from other political figures. Saifuddin Abdullah, former PN Foreign Minister and MP for Indera Mahkota, publicly agreed in Parliament on March 5, 2024, that the previous practice of respecting parental decisions for DLP subjects taught in English should continue. Lim Guan Eng also pointed out that the policy was initially implemented by the PN/BN government, questioning why certain figures are now opposing it or introducing racialised arguments.
Ministry Engagement and Existing Guidelines

Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek has stated that her ministry is actively engaging with all stakeholders in Penang concerning the DLP. She affirmed that the programme adheres to the guidelines set forth in the ministry’s circular dated March 19 of this year. A key aspect of these guidelines is ensuring that schools implementing the DLP provide opportunities for students who wish to study Science and Mathematics in either the national language or their mother tongue, alongside English instruction.

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Should parents decide the language for Science and Maths classes?

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