Parents against introduction of non-DLP class in Melaka schools

MELAKA: A group of parents are against the introduction of a non-Dual Language Programme (DLP) class in a dozen schools where the programme has been implemented here.

The group, comprising chairmen of the schools' parent-teacher associations (PTA), said this was an "unwarranted" move to introduce a non-DLP class in the affected schools.

The group, represented by Melaka Action Group for Parents in Education (Magpie) chairman Mak Chee Kin, said parents had voiced dissatisfaction after principals of the 12 schools received a circular from the state Education Department on March 19 to set up a non-DLP class at each school.

"There was no demand for non-DLP classes at any of these 12 schools but the circular was still issued about a week after the school session started.

"Furthermore, all the schools with ongoing DLP programmes have recorded targetted achievements in (the) Bahasa Melayu (subject)," he said during a press conference at a restaurant on Jalan Parameswara here on Sunday (April 28).

Mak also said there were no proper educational materials provided to these schools to conduct non-DLP classes.

"Many parents are not keen to send their kids to non-DLP classes. Hence, teachers would be forced to pick students to fill the classes," he said.

Mak said Education Minister Fadhlina Sidek should provide a comprehensive explanation on why non-DLP classes are being introduced.

He said parent-teacher associations of affected schools will send a memorandum to the state Education Department on the issue in a bid to safeguard the interests of students.

"We will hold a peaceful demonstration at the Education Minister's office in Putrajaya as a last resort," he added.

In November 2023, the Education Minister directed participating schools to introduce at least one non-DLP class.

The minister said there were students in DLP schools who lacked basic proficiency in Malay and their mother tongue.