KOTA KINABALU: The Sabah government must take urgent steps to ensure the Dual Language Programme (DLP) is enhanced in the state, says Warisan vice-president Datuk Junz Wong.
His call comes amid fresh debates and concerns that the programme might be tapering off.
Wong said there was an apparent lack of initiative or urgency on the part of the state to reintroduce English in schools under the DLP.
"There seems to be halted progress of DLP classes initially selected for a few Sabah secondary schools," he said in a statement on Thursday (Dec 12).
He said Sabah was not pushing DLP, unlike neighbouring Sarawak, which had maintained "a degree of autonomy in its educational directives" that emphasised English in schools.
Sabah should similarly prioritise the DLP to safeguard its autonomy and educational standards, he said, adding that the GRS state government seemed to be indifferent to the issue.
“It’s not just about language. It’s about securing a future where our children are leaders in an interconnected world.
"We demand action, commitment, and a clear timeline for DLP implementation.
“The time for half-measures and delays is over. Our children’s ability to thrive in a globalised world hinges on their English and Bahasa Malaysia proficiency.
"The DLP is not just an educational programme. It’s a strategic imperative for our state’s competitiveness,” said Wong, whose party is in the opposition at the state level.
"Sabah must not be left behind as the world advances. We must reinstate and expand DLP classes to equip our students with the necessary knowledge to compete globally and succeed," he added.
