The duel over the implementation of the Dual Language Programme (DLP) in schools is a never-ending story.
The early 1970s saw the start of English losing its importance in English-medium schools. By the 2000s, the decline in language proficiency was clear.
In the 1960s, practically all teachers were well-versed in English. That was why there was no issue with lessons being taught in English.
But when the standard of English plummeted over time, very few could converse fluently in the language. Broken English became the norm.
For the last 50-odd years when Bahasa Malaysia (BM) was the medium of instruction, generations of students lost the ability to speak fluently in English. Most of them would stutter when asked to converse in the language.
Today, the standard of English in schools is dismal, except perhaps in Sarawak, where both BM and English are treated with equal importance.
The reality is that after decades of English taking a backseat, there is no way we will regain the proficiency seen in our glorious past.
Some teachers who are in their 50s are proficient in the language and can teach in English. Their younger peers are probably able to communicate in English but are not proficient in it.
Taking all this into consideration, very few schools can implement the DLP effectively, and those that can would probably only be able to manage two classes at most.
It would take a monumental effort to get back to the 1960s when English, a universally accepted language of communication, was prioritised so that we could be connected to the rest of world.
Simply asking some teachers from neighbouring Singapore to teach English won’t solve the problem. We need an abundance of teachers who are proficient in English if we want to pride ourselves on our fluency again.
Let’s go back to the basics, starting with Year One. Split our schools into two mediums – BM and English. Only then will our standard of English start to have a semblance of the quality we used to possess. Till then, it will all just be hot air.
THIAGAN MATHIAPARANAM
Klang
