Retain programme for the children’s sake

I STRONGLY support and endorse the Dual Language Programme (DLP) as it has yielded very positive results in schools.

I am appalled to see this programme being sensationalised by many quarters without any valid reason. Hypothetically, if one does not like this programme, he or she can always switch to schools without it. Therefore, I do not see any reason for people with hidden agendas to dispute this programme which was introduced by the Prime Minister in the 2016 Budget.

It is sad to see small groups of people bringing the DLP issue to court as they jeopardize the learning opportunity of the majority of young learners. What right do these people have to tell other parents in which language Science and Mathematics should be taught and learned?

I agree that the teaching of Science and Mathematics in English has helped students to improve their English. And the most beautiful part of DLP is that it helps students to improve their English without any deterioration in their grades in other subjects.

Since its introduction in 2016, schools that implemented DLP have produced good results in their major examinations.

The Education Ministry should, in fact, introduce DLP to more schools. If the current 10% of schools implementing this programme in the country is increased to 20%, better results can be expected in the future.

More parents should consider registering their children in this programme as, at the end of the day, we want our younger generation to excel in their studies.

The main reason for students’ low score in English is the insufficient time they are exposed to this language. If the teaching of Science and Mathematics is conducted in English, I’m quite optimistic the standard of English and other subjects will improve. Parents, especially of Tamil school students, should not have any doubt over the implementation of DLP.

ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR DR MAHENDRAN MANIAM

Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris

Perak